I was wondering who actually had a nicotine test the day of surgery? I quite using the patches for support. I'm listed as a non smoker. My insurance did not require a test. I have not been tested. I am done smoking, but very anxious about surgery on the 30th and having it canceled because I used the patch.

I was tested for nicotine on my first visit with surgeon and 2 weeks prior to surgery. Since nicotine interferes with wound healing, many surgeons require this test. You may find some interesting info in this link:
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-nicotine-stay-in-your-system-80291

I don't remember a nicotine test but I haven't smoked in over 25 years so I may have forgotten about it. Can you ask your surgeon's office about what they would do?

You need to have a frank discussion with your Doc about your current nicotine based habits.

If you wait until day of surgery and the Doc just happens to find out, he may cancel on general principle. If you deal with it beforehand, it doesn't look like you are trying to get over on the doc and then the Doc may have a solution of which you haven't considered. Heck, Doc may just say "screw it" and not worry about it.

Doc may simply have you discontinue the nicotine product for a period of time.

Frank and honest are almost always the best path forward.

Good luck,

Tek

Edited September 26, 20205 yr by The Greater Fool

I had the test twice. Once in beginning after I quit and then 1 week before the surgery.