Choose a Topic Preoperative Instructions Postoperative Instructions PREOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS for Patients Undergoing Intravenous Anesthesia Patients must not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for six (6) hours prior to the appointment. A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and be able to drive the patient home. A responsible adult must then stay with the patient at home until they are fully recovered from anesthesia, or 24 hours. The patient should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery for 24 hours following the anesthesia experience. Please wear loose fitting clothing with sleeves which can be rolled up past the elbow, and low-heeled shoes. Contact lenses, jewelry, tongue studs and dentures must be removed before surgery. Back to top of page