Before you arrive at the hospital
Before you arrive at the hospital
- You may eat up to eight hours before your surgery.
- Eat light meals, such as oatmeal or toast.
- Avoid foods that are heavy or high in fat, such as meat or fried foods.
- Do not use chewing tobacco six hours before your surgery.
- You may have clear liquids up to two hours before your surgery.
- Drink water, fruit juice without pulp, tea or black coffee.
- You may also have hard candy and gum.
- Do not drink milk or alcohol, or eat yogurt.
- Take your prescribed heart, blood pressure, asthma, anti-Parkinson's, steroid, seizure or pain medicines as directed with a small sip of water, unless your health care provider gives you other instructions.
- Bathe or shower. Dress in comfortable clothing.
- Arrive at the hospital two hours before your surgery.
Related resources
Source: Allina Health's Patient Education Department, Preparing for Your Hysterectomy, gyn-ah-95582
Reviewed By: Allina Health Patient Education experts
First Published: 04/25/2013
Last Reviewed: 11/30/2015