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Patients & Visitors

Preparing for Surgery: What to do the day of your surgery

On the morning of your surgery, please follow these guidelines.

  • Do not take oral medicine on the day of your surgery, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
  • Before you leave home, remember to do the following:
    • bring any medications you take on a daily basis
    • bring an interpreter who can speak English, if needed
  • If you are to receive physiotherapy after surgery, please bring with you:
    • comfortable clothing (such as a tracksuit)
    • bathrobe
    • walking or running shoes
  • Please ask your family to bring your personal items after your surgery, once you have been assigned a room. These may include:
    • toothbrush and toothpaste
    • slippers
    • nightgown

Note: If you are unable to have these items brought later, your clothes and other belongings will be transferred to your postsurgery unit.

  • Do not wear or bring the following:
    • make-up
    • nail polish
    • other cosmetics and perfumes
    • valuables
    • jewellery
    • credit cards

If you bring in the above items, you will be asked you sign a release form.

Leave the following at home:

  • Large amounts of cash. (You may bring a small amount of cash for incidentals, such as a television rental, pay phone, or a newspaper.)
  • Your car
    • You cannot drive home after your operation.
    • You must arrange with a friend or family member to take you home by taxi or car. Have them call 416-864-5736 before noon on the day of your release to arrange your discharge.
    • Under no circumstances are you allowed to travel home by public transportation.
    • You are advised not to attempt to perform any task that requires skill, coordination, or judgement for twenty-four (24) hours after your anesthetic.


Review the information on what to do the day before your surgery.

For more information, refer to the Pre-Admission Facility Pamphlet (49 KB pdf file).