Preparation on the Previous Day of Operation

1. Remove all the jewellery, nail polish, cut nails. 
2. The patient's body is cleaned - shaving from chin to toe, including private parts (whole body) expect in children is done for all open heart surgeries and the trunk for closed heart surgery. After shaving, the patient is given a thorough bath including hair wash. Savlon is added to the water for bath (Savlon bath). After the bath. the nurse inspects the patient's body to make sure the preparation is done properly. After the bath, the patient is given a sterile hospital dress to wear. The patient's bed is made with sterile sheet. 
3. Instruct relatives not to sit on patient's bed. 
4. Sensitivity test for the antibiotics is done and the results are recorded. Some surgeons wish to start the antibiotic one day before the surgery. 
5. Any investigations such as chest x-ray, CBC, blood sugar, urea, electrolyte, ECG etc. is done and report collected. 
6. A light meal is given early in the evening. 
7. Instruct the patient not to take anything orally after 10 p.m. (fasting from 10 p.m.). 
8. Administer the medication (anti-anxiety drugs) for a good sleep as prescribed by the anesthetist. Assist the patient for a good sleep by providing a comfortable environment. 
9. Check and keep the case sheet with all records and reports and informed consent form.