A good thing about the internet , you can research your hospital & doctors before hand..
https://www.google.com/search?q=hosp...ngs&gws_rd=ssl
Get second & third opinions...
It's good to have someone go with you to the pre op appts , so they can help ask questions and recall things that you might have forgotten.. Especially if you might be nervous /distracted.
At hospital have a trusted person there that will speak up and ask questions if /when you aren't able to.
Ask /oversee everything to help make it a good & safe outcome..
What it that (med) for? (make sure it is actually for the person...)
What is happening next?
If surgeon doesn't mark with pen on correct body part, request it...
The hospital I have been to with family members the last 10+ years - they always mark area with a marking pen..
Accidents do still happen, but having someone with you should help to avoid problems.