The day before surgery

Tell your surgeon if you have any changes in your health (sore throat, cold, fever, dental problem, urinating problem) or skin condition (rash, abrasions). You may need to schedule your surgery for a later date.
Healthy skin free of scrapes or cuts is important to prevent infection. Before surgery do not do activities that may lead to skin cuts, scrapes, abrasions or wounds. Tell your surgeon if you have any of these skin conditions. Your surgery may need to be rescheduled for a later date.
If you take diabetes medicine, ask the health care provider who is managing your diabetes if you should take your medicine before surgery.
Bathe or shower using the cleansing your skin for your surgery instructions or as directed by your surgeon.

Source: Allina Health's Patient Education Department, Knee Replacement, seventh edition, ortho-ah-90140

Reviewed By: Allina Health's Patient Education Department experts

First Published: 10/01/2000

Last Reviewed: 02/01/2020