Patient Care

Preparing for Surgery

Every surgery or procedure is unique. You should always consult your physician with specific questions about your surgery or procedure. The following instructions are presented as general guidelines. If they differ from or contradict those given by your physician or nurse, always defer to the instructions from the medical professional.

Before Surgery

• Prior to your surgery, a staff member will call to confirm your surgery time and ask questions regarding your medical conditions, allergies and medications.
• Your physician or a facility nurse will tell you what time you are to stop eating and drinking prior to your surgery.
• If you take medication for any condition, ask your physician or a facility nurse whether to take it the day of surgery.
• Notify your physician if there is any change in your health, such as a cold, fever or sore throat, the week before your surgery.
• For women, if there is any possibility you are pregnant, please notify your physician and a facility nurse.
• If special financial arrangements are necessary, please call our business office prior to your surgery date.

Day of Surgery

• Bathe the morning of your surgery. Be sure your hair is dry.
• Do not use any styling products or wear make up, perfume or nail polish.
• You will be asked to remove contact lenses, dentures and any prosthesis.
• Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Upon arrival, you will change into a gown and slippers provided by the facility.
• Leave all valuables at home, including watches, rings, jewelry and wallets.
• Arrive promptly at the scheduled time to allow adequate time for admission procedures.
• Bring your insurance ID cards, any paperwork from your physician, such as test results, a list of your medications and a form of payment if your insurance company requires a co-pay.
• For your safety, please arrange for an adult to drive you home after surgery. You will not be allowed to drive yourself home.

In the Recovery Area

• After surgery, you will be moved to the recovery area where you will be closely monitored until you are ready to go home.
• When you are fully awake, your family will be able to join you. Although the times may vary, most patients are discharged one to three hours after surgery.
• It is normal to feel discomfort in the area of your surgery. You may also experience some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on the kind of anesthesia you received. At Home After Surgery
• Your physician will provide specific instructions for care while recovering at home. In the event of any difficulty, please call your physician.
• For the first 24 hours following surgery, do not engage in strenuous activities, drink any alcoholic beverages, drive or make any critical decisions.
• A facility nurse will call you within a day or two to evaluate how you are recovering at home.