Before Intravenous Anesthesia Sedation

PRIOR TO INTRAVENOUS (IV) SEDATION:

If you will be using IV sedation for your surgery, it is very important that you follow the instruction below. Failure to do so may result in the delay or cancellation of your surgery as anesthesia cannot be given otherwise.

  • Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for eight hours before your appointment.  We encourage you to eat a light meal eight to ten hours before surgery, avoiding alcoholic beverages.       Sips of water only are allowed to take necessary medications more than 2 hours before surgery.
  • Go to bed early the night before surgery so you will be well rested.
  • No smoking for 12 hours before surgery.  Ideally, cut down or stop smoking as soon as possible before the day of surgery.
  • Come to our office with a responsible adult who can remain in the office during your surgery and drive you home.
  • Do not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours after your surgery.
  • On the day of surgery wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up above the elbow, and low or no-heel shoes.
  • Contact lenses, jewelry, and dentures must be removed at the time of surgery.
  • Do not wear lipstick, eye makeup, or excessive makeup on the day of surgery.
  • Remove acrylic nails before surgery.
  • If you have an illness on the day of surgery (i.e. cold, sore throat, upset stomach or bowel) please notify our office.
  • If you take routine oral medications, please check with your doctor prior to the day of surgery for instructions.
  • In some cases your doctor will ask you to take medications prior to surgery (i.e. antibiotics or pain relievers).  Please refer to your prescription and follow as directed.  If you are on medications for high blood pressure or heart disease, continue to take your normal dosage with a small sip of water greater than 2 hours prior. 
  • If you have asthma, bring your inhaler with you on the day of surgery.
  • Diabetes medicine regimens such as insulin or other medicines should be discussed with our office or your prescribing doctor prior to the day of surgery. Taking insulin and other diabetes medications may dangerously lower your blood sugar if not eating such as fasting before surgery.

Important note: The pain medication you are prescribed may contain Tylenol (acetaminophen, APAP) as well as a narcotic. Do not take other medications containing Tylenol at this time as this could cause liver damage. The maximum daily allowable dose of Tylenol is now 3000 mg.