Preparing for Your Visit

When you’re facing a cardiac procedure or heart surgery, preparing for your visit and knowing what to expect can set a positive mood and make you feel more at ease. The steps you take beforehand can help improve your outcome and give you a sense of control over your healthcare.

What to expect the day of your cardiac procedure

It’s common to spend the night before heart surgery in the hospital. You may also need to spend a few days in the hospital afterwards. Before your surgery, you can generally expect to:

• Talk with a preoperative nurse. The nurse may perform an exam and can answer questions.
• Have a family member safeguard jewelry, glasses, contacts, dentures, or other personal items. 
• Talk with the anesthesiologist about your anesthesia.
• Get an IV line and medication to help you relax.
• Have the chest and other related areas shaved of hair.
• Talk with your surgeon before an attendant wheels your bed to the operating room. 
• Once inside the operating suite your anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia.

How to prepare for your cardiac procedure

In general, you can prepare for heart surgery by:

Providing your care team your full medical history and answering questions about your medications. Bring a current list of your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications, supplements, and vitamins.
Getting preoperative testing as your doctor orders, such as a chest X-ray and blood tests. 
Sleeping 8 or 9 hours a night as many days as possible before the procedure, especially for major surgery. 
Exercising regularly and safely losing weight if you are overweight. 
Following eating and drinking restrictions in the hours before surgery. 
Stopping smoking as soon as possible.

Insurance coverage for your cardiac procedure

Insurance coverage varies depending on your plan. Call your insurance provider before heart surgery and ask about your coverage. Find out if you need preauthorization or any other paperwork before surgery. Your doctor’s office can help you coordinate this. Make sure you understand your portion of the costs, including copays and deductibles.

Questions to ask your doctor 

Take a list of questions to your preoperative appointments. Bring a family member or trusted friend with you to help you remember your doctor’s answers. You could also record the appointment with your doctor’s permission.

Questions to ask:

• Am I a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure with smaller incisions?
• How long with the procedure take? When will I go home?
• What restrictions will I have afterwards? What kind of help will I need at home?
• What is my medication plan both before and after surgery? 
• Will I need cardiac rehabilitation?
• How should I contact you during and after regular hours? 
• When will I see you for follow-up appointments?

Don’t hesitate to communicate your questions or concerns with your doctor and cardiac care team. They’re prepared, and they also want you to be as calm, comfortable, and healthy as possible before your procedure.