What to Do the Night Before Surgery

Preparing well the night before your operation can help you feel more confident, reduce surprises and set the stage for a smoother experience. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide on what to do the night before surgery.

1. Review Your Pre-Op Instructions

• Re-read the instructions from your surgeon or hospital.
• Note any fasting times (“NPO after midnight,” “clear liquids until 2 a.m.,” etc.).
• Confirm your arrival time, location and paperwork requirements.
• Check which medications you should or shouldn’t take (e.g., blood thinners, diabetes meds).

2. Follow Fasting and Fluid Guidelines

Most surgeries require you to fast to reduce aspiration risk.
• Stop solid food by the time your instructions specify (often midnight).
• If allowed, you can sip clear liquids (water, apple juice, black coffee) up until the cutoff.
• Avoid milk, soup, alcohol and anything with pulp or cream after the last allowed drink.

Tip: Set an alarm on your phone to remind you when the fasting period begins.

3. Manage Your Medications

Medication regimens vary by procedure and personal health:
• Blood pressure, heart or seizure meds: usually taken with a small sip of water.
• Diabetes medications or insulin: check with your surgical team for adjusted dosing.
• Blood thinners or anti-inflammatories: often held 24–72 hours before surgery.

If you’re unsure, call your surgeon’s office or pharmacist to confirm.

4. Prepare Your Physical Space

Having everything in place reduces last-minute stress:
• Pack your hospital bag. Include:

• Photo ID and insurance card
• A list of current medications and allergies
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for going home
• Essential toiletries (toothbrush, hair tie, lip balm)
• Phone charger and headphones
  • Arrange your ride to the hospital and someone to stay with you afterward.
  • Place a glass of water and your nighttime medication (if any) by your bedside.

5. Practice Good Hygiene

A clean body helps reduce infection risk:
• Take a shower or bath, using any antimicrobial soap provided by your team.
• Avoid lotions, perfumes, makeup, nail polish and jewelry.
• Brush your teeth—but no mouthwash with alcohol before bed.

6. Plan a Nutritious Pre-Fasting Meal

Eat an easy-to-digest dinner before fasting:
• Choose lean protein (grilled chicken or fish), whole grains and steamed vegetables.
• Skip heavy, greasy or spicy foods that might cause indigestion.
• Drink a glass of water with your meal to stay hydrated before fasting begins.

7. Wind Down Emotionally

Staying calm helps you rest and can improve recovery:
• Try deep-breathing exercises or guided meditation apps.
• Read a light book, listen to relaxing music or journal your thoughts.
• Avoid intense news, movies or stressful conversations right before bed.

8. Confirm Logistics

Double-check everything so the morning goes smoothly:
• Verify your pick-up time and driver’s contact info.
• Ensure your hospital registration paperwork is complete.
• Keep emergency contact numbers in your wallet.
• Note any special instructions (e.g., arriving without makeup or jewelry).

9. Note Questions and Concerns

Write down any last-minute questions for your surgical team:
• When will I receive pain medication?
• What side effects should I watch for?
• How soon can I eat or drink after surgery?
• Whom do I call if I have a fever or other worrying symptoms?

If you experience new or worsening symptoms—such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe dizziness or high fever—speak to a doctor right away. You might also consider a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker.

10. What to Bring and What to Leave

Essentials to pack:
• ID, insurance card, medication list, emergency contacts
• Cell phone and charger
• Glasses, hearing aids, CPAP machine (if you use one)
• Slip-on shoes and eyeglass case

Leave at home:
• Valuables (jewelry, large amounts of cash)
• Makeup, nail polish, scented lotions

11. Aim for Quality Sleep

Good rest overnight supports healing:
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet.
• Avoid screens (phones, tablets) at least 30 minutes before bed.
• Try white noise or a fan if silence feels unsettling.
• If you can’t sleep, get up, do a quiet activity (reading, deep breathing) and return to bed when drowsy.

12. Morning Checklist

Before you leave:
• Verify you’re fasting and confirm medication instructions.
• Shower again if instructed by your care team.
• Put on clean, comfortable clothes without makeup or jewelry.
• Bring your packed bag and paperwork.
• Have a light sip of water if permitted, then head to the hospital as planned.

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Preparing the night before surgery takes a little extra time but goes a long way toward reducing stress. By following these steps, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother pre-op experience and help your care team focus on what matters most—your safe and successful surgery.

If you have any life-threatening or serious concerns, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. For any other medical questions, always speak to a doctor.