Eating and drinking:

Keeping the stomach empty before anesthesia is very important for your safety. This is because under anesthesia, there is a risk of stomach contents coming back up and going down into the lungs.

Follow these two rules to stay safe:

8 hours before arrival: Stop eating. It is now okay to drink water, clear juice, or sports drinks. Do not drink liquids like milk, orange juice, coffee, or tea. Pills can safely be taken.

2 hours before arrival: Stop drinking or taking anything else by mouth, including gum, mints, or candy.

It is important to be honest with your anesthesiologist if you or your child accidentally ate or drank after the above times.

Medications:

Most prescribed medications are safe to take on the day of surgery. We prefer you or your child to take them at least two hours prior to arrival.

Dr. McCreary or Dr. Duan may ask you or your child to take a dose of acetaminophen (Tylenol) prior to arrival. He or she will give you information about this in advance.

Coughs and Colds:

If you or your child develops a cough, cold, or flu-like symptoms in the week before the procedure, please contact your dentist or surgeon’s office. A severe cold may increase the risk for breathing problems during anesthesia, and it may be safest to postpone the procedure. Your health care team can help to make this decision with you.

General Advice:

The night before you receive anesthesia, consider eating a simple meal that is easy to digest. Try to get a good night’s rest. The morning of your procedure, stay hydrated with clear liquids until you have been instructed to stop taking anything by mouth. (See above).

Comfort Items:

For pediatric patients, please bring anything from home that you feel will help to keep your son or daughter at ease. Having a favorite toy or tablet to occupy your child while he or she falls asleep can be very helpful. Bringing along a familiar blanket and/or stuffed animal can also help comfort your son or daughter during the visit.