Always tell your doctor or nurse:

• If you could be pregnant
• What drugs you are taking, even drugs or herbs you bought without a prescription

During the days before the surgery:

• You will have blood samples taken in case you need a blood transfusion.
• You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), Clopidogrel (Plavix), warfarin (Coumadin), and other drugs like these.
• Ask your doctor which drugs you should still take on the day of the surgery.
• Always try to stop smoking. This will help you to recover quicker. Your doctor or nurse can help.

On the day of the surgery:

• You will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before the surgery.
• Take the drugs your doctor told you to take with a small sip of water.
• Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.