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Sleep

Man sleeping in his bed

Waiting for surgery can be a stressful time.

Most patients experience some level of anxiety and nervousness. This is normal as there are a lot of “what ifs” and unknowns. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally during the time leading up to your procedure puts you in control. The best way to do this is to follow the guidelines in your B.E.S.T. videos and patient education materials. By focusing on what you can control, you are going to naturally feel more at ease and prepared.

Be sure to ask your team questions about anything that concerns you. This will alleviate some of the “what ifs” contributing to your stress and anxiety.

Your goal is to sleep 6 – 8 hours per night.

What is B.E.S.T Sleeping?

The B.E.S.T. way to meet your daily obligations while taking care of your health leading up to and following surgery is to get an adequate amount of sleep. Providing your body with an adequate amount of sleep prior to surgery also helps reduce the risk of complication and speeds up the recovery process.


The goal is to sleep 6 – 8 hours per night.

Tips for a good night's sleep:

  • Keep a regular routine, even on the weekends.
  • Relax prior to sleep through meditation, taking a bath or shower, reading, etc.
  • Keep your room dark, quiet, cool and comforting.
  • Avoid electronics and/or watching TV at least 30 minutes prior to sleep.
  • Make sure your mattress and pillows are supportive and free of allergens.
  • Finish eating at least 2-3 hours prior to laying down.
  • Avoid caffeine after 12 Noon as this stimulant can affect people up to 12 hours later.
  • Avoid alcohol prior to bed as it interrupts the sleep cycle and can cause sleep deprivation.
  • Avoid nicotine as it is also a stimulant. This includes any form of tobacco and Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs).
  • Exercise regularly but finish working out at least 3 hours before bedtime to allow your temperature to lower and your metabolism to slow prior to laying down.

It is also important to remain calm and relaxed during the day. Consider exploring the benefits of mindfulness and music therapy. Other ways to relax include spending time with family, friends or pets; getting a massage; going to the movies; and deep breathing.


If you experience an extreme level of anxiety about your procedure, let your surgical optimization team know or your primary care physician. They are trained to help you feel emotionally ready for your upcoming procedure.