You will probably be asked to arrive early to fill out paperwork and answer some questions. Your doctor will want to verify that you are ready for the procedure.
You may be asked to come in "NPO". This means you should not have anything to eat or drink for at least six hours before the procedure. This reduces the risk of vomiting food or liquids if you should become nauseated or have a reaction to the medications. Nausea is unpleasant, but it can also cause serious complications if you accidentally inhale (aspirate) food or liquid into your lungs while you are groggy. Not having anything in your stomach during this procedure is an extra precaution highly recommended by most health care providers.
You will probably be asked to change into a hospital gown. You will then be
connected to a device that monitors your heart rate (pulse) and blood pressure.
An intravenous (IV) line may be started in your arm. You may be asked to sit
on a stretcher or lie on your side for the procedure. The area of the back
will be prepared with an antiseptic. Lidocaine may be injected to numb the
skin around area where the epidural will be performed.
