For Patients

Preparing for Surgery

Your journey to surgery starts with support, guidance and care.

Your Teams Pre-Op Day of Checklist Post-Op FAQs Virtual Tour

What to Expect Before Surgery

At ChristianaCare, we’re committed to helping you feel informed and confident as you prepare for surgery. Whether you’re scheduled for a routine procedure or a complex operation, our team is here to guide you through every step.

Your Surgical Support Teams

You’ll have access to special teams who help make sure you’re fully prepared for surgery. These teams review your health, provide guidance and coordinate with your surgeons, so you feel safe and ready.

Center for Surgical Optimization

The CSO provides additional support for patients who may need medical assistance before surgery. Services include:

Physical exams and health history reviews.
Risk assessments and care coordination.
Pre-surgical education and reminders via text messaging.
Medication guidance (e.g., anticoagulants, antihypertensives).
Support for destination patients and bundled care programs.

CSO Newark View Location

Medical Arts Pavilion 1, Suite 112
4745 Ogletown-Stanton Road
Newark, DE 19713

Call 302-623-7370 Get directions

Emergency entrance of Wilmington Hospital

CSO Wilmington View Location

501 West 14th Street
Main Entrance Office 1N37
Wilmington, DE 19801

Call 302-320-5131 Get directions

Perioperative Evaluation and Preparation (PEP) Team

Our PEP nurses virtually assess your health history, identify risks and coordinate with your surgical team to ensure you’re ready for your procedure. They may also refer you for additional testing or consultations if needed.

To contact the ChristianaCare PEP team, please call 302-428-2200.

Before Surgery: How to Prepare

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How to Prepare

Follow your pre-op instructions given by your doctors and surgeon. These may include fasting, medication adjustments or lab work.
Complete your health history. Our PEP team may contact you for a virtual interview.
Ask questions. We’re here to help you feel confident and informed.

Pre-Surgical Testing

Your required pre-surgical tests depend on your procedure and medical history. If your doctor provides a form with the tests you will need, please bring it with you.
Check with your insurance to confirm where you can complete testing. If you use ChristianaCare Lab Services, bring all doctor-provided forms.
All testing must be completed within 30 days of surgery and no later than 7 days before. For minors, a parent or guardian must be present.

Day-Of Surgery Checklist: What Should I Bring

Take time to pack necessities and any items that may make you more comfortable.

Bring your photo ID and insurance card.
Bring a list of medications.
Bring your advance directive (if applicable).
Follow skin cleansing protocols (e.g., CHG wipes).
Wear comfortable clothing.
Leave valuables at home.

After (Post) Surgery: What to Expect

After surgery, you will recover in our Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).
You will receive specific discharge instructions and schedule any follow-up appointments.
Receive access to Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols.
Get support from CareVio for post-op coordination.

FAQs

Your family or support person will be asked to remain in the Surgical and Procedure Unit (SPU) waiting area while you are being prepared for surgery by the nursing staff. A tracking number will be issued to them so they may follow your progress throughout the day on our electronic tracking system located in the surgical waiting rooms. Refreshments and a vending area are available.

A parent or guardian must accompany any patient under 18 to the hospital or Surgicenter and may not leave the facility while the child is in the operating room.

Speak to your doctor before changing your medication routine. Your care team will give you clear directions on which medications to take or pause before surgery.

A successful procedure and smooth recovery actually begins BEFORE surgery. Your surgeon and medical team will work with you in the weeks leading up to surgery to help you be as healthy as possible:

Quit smoking
Exercise
Eat nutritious foods

Anesthesia ensures you stay comfortable and pain-free during your procedure. The type of anesthesia you receive depends on the kind of surgery and your health history. Anesthesia services at ChristianaCare hospitals are provided exclusively by Anesthesia Services, P.A.

Virtual Tour: See Our Surgical Facilities

Take a virtual tour to see where you will go, what you will do and what you and your loved ones can expect during your surgery at ChristianaCare. Feel more comfortable on the day of your procedure by getting a step-by-step look at what your journey will be at ChristianaCare surgical facilities.

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