How to Prepare for Gallbladder Surgery
You have been through the gallbladder attacks and they were bad enough that you were relieved when your doctor recommended surgery; however, as the day for surgery draws near, you become nervous. It is a natural response to something you are not used to having done, but knowing what steps you can take to prepare for gallbladder surgery will help calm your nerves and provide a measure of control.
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Instructions
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Discontinue use of blood thinning medications including aspirin one week before surgery unless otherwise instructed by the doctor. Blood thinning medications can create over bleeding during surgical procedures. Ask your doctor about continuing other medications in the days leading up to your surgery.
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Meet with medical staff members who will be charged with your care before, during and following your gallbladder surgery. Have your questions answered so you know what to expect before you check into the hospital. Tell them at this time about any allergies you have, or any problems you experienced during past surgeries or medical treatment.
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Avoid eating all foods that are high in fat or very spicy before you go in for surgery. Fatty and spicy foods often trigger gallbladder attacks, which can make surgery a medical crisis instead of a scheduled procedure.
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Avoid ingesting any food or liquid after midnight on the night before your gallbladder surgery. Eating or drinking can cause you to vomit during surgery and that creates a danger of aspiration into the lungs. Eating or drinking before surgery can sometimes cause the surgeon to cancel the surgery until a later date.
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Remove perfume, jewelry, lotions and dentures prior to surgery. Leaving them at home will reduce what you have to remember to gather upon discharge.
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Tips & Warnings
Having clear broths and bland foods already stocked in the house before you go in for surgery can make your recovery more comfortable.
Have an extra pillow in the vehicle that will transport you home following surgery. You will feel more comfortable holding it against your stomach during the ride.
Tell your doctor and the nurses immediately if you have any kind of illness in the days leading to surgery including a cold, sore throat, fever or chills.
