What to Tell Your Doctor

Keep a Diary

When helping a person prepare for surgery, there are many things you will observe. Keep a list or diary of your observations so that you can share what you k

  • Report if the person has followed any medicine restrictions or if the person has taken any medicines that morning.
  • Report how long it has been since the person has had any liquids or solid food to eat.
  • If the person was required to take medicines to clean the bowel, report the results.
  • If the person was required to have an enema at home, report the results.
  • Take a complete list of the person’s medicines with you when you go to the hospital or surgery center.
  • Report if the person has experienced nausea, vomiting, or change in pain prior to coming for surgery.
  • Report if the person has developed any cold or breathing problems or fever.