Southdale ObGyn is excited to partner with M-Health Fairview to provide you with evidence based strategies developed to enhance and expedite your recovery after a scheduled cesarean section (c-section), called “ERAS” (enhanced recovery after surgery).
Southdale ObGyn is excited to partner with M-Health Fairview to provide you with evidence based strategies developed to enhance and expedite your recovery after a scheduled cesarean section (c-section), called “ERAS” (enhanced recovery after surgery).
Enhanced recovery is a way of caring for women after a c-section to help them get better faster. All of the members of your care team work together with the goal of a smooth recovery in mind. This lets you and your family focus on taking care of and enjoying your newborn.
Enhanced recovery includes interventions before, during and after your delivery by c-section. Before your scheduled c-section, the staff at Southdale ObGyn will review components of the ERAS protocol, including Preparing for Your Cesarean Section at M Health Fairview
Between Now & Your Surgery:
- Obtain a 12 oz Gatorade or Powerade drink (this can be purchased at Southdale ObGyn).
- Obtain Chlorhexidine Gluconate 4% surgical soap (a common brand name is Hibiclens). You will need two 4 oz bottles (this can be purchased at Southdale ObGyn).
- Drop off any short-term disability or FMLA paperwork at Southdale ObGyn. Please allow up to 7 business days for these forms to be completed and returned to you.
- Review patient education to prepare for your cesarean section:
24 Hours Before Surgery:
- Continue taking any medicines prescribed to you by your doctor unless you have been told otherwise.
- Remove all piercings. You will need to leave these at home.
- Do not shave or clip any pubic or stomach hair the day before or the day of your cesarean section; this can lead to infection.
- Take a shower with the surgical soap.
- Follow the steps in Showering Before Surgery
- You are required to take 2 showers prior to your surgery- the night before AND the morning of your surgery.
- Do not smoke or vape. It may delay recovery from surgery.
8 Hours Before Surgery:
- Stop eating 8 hours before surgery.
- Switch to clear liquids only (water, Gatorade, Powerade). You may continue to drink clear liquids up until 2 hours before your surgery time, and then stop.
3 to 8 Hours Before Surgery:
- Take a second shower using surgical soap.
- Drink 8 to 12 ounces of Gatorade or Powerade prior to your arrival at the hospital (complete 2 hours prior to your surgery start time). It is okay if you cannot drink it all. (If you have any type of diabetes, including gestational, drink 8 to 12 ounces of water instead.)
2 Hours Before Surgery:
- Take nothing by mouth after this time (unless directed otherwise by your health care team)