Preparing for Surgery
Of course, every persons surgery is unique and is individualized. However, there are certain aspects of outpatient surgery that pertain to everyone. Below is some useful information regarding your outpatient procedure. If you have any particular concerns about your planned surgical experience contact your surgeon or call and speak to one of our nurses.
Pre-Operative-Testing
Pre-Operative surgical testing is at the discretion of your surgeon. You may be required to have a Pre-surgical physical exam, blood work, EKG, or chest X-ray. The testing should be completed before the surgical procedure. The results should be faxed or e-mailed to the ordering physician and to our facility.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Pre-Operative Instructions will given to you by your surgeon. The time of your surgery will be given as well. If you are the first surgery of the day your time will be exact. If a later surgery is planned the time will be estimated. We will keep in touch with you so you have the shortest wait time possible.
Food and Liquid Restriction
With certain procedures, there are food restrictions. Unless otherwise instructed by your surgeon, DO NOT EAT SOLID FOODS after midnight the night before your surgery. You may have clear liquid until 6 hours prior to your surgery time. No liquids 6 hours before your procedure. (Undigested food in the stomach can cause complications during a surgical procedure. Your surgery is most likely to be postponed if you forget to follow the above instructions).
Hygiene
Take a shower the night before, or the morning of the surgery procedure to minimize your risk of infection. Teeth may be brushed; however, do not consume liquid after brushing. Do not wear contact lenses. Remove all make-up and nail polish. Do not wear lotions. Remove all body piercing if possible, especially if near the mouth or surgical site.
Personal Belonging
Wear no jewelry and leave all valuables at home. The Surgical Center is not responsible for personal items, wallets, jewelry, etc. that is lost.
Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing that will accommodate dressings. Staining from skin disinfectants and blood are possible so plan accordingly. Shoes should be flat and comfortable. Consider your type of surgery and wear the appropriate clothing. If you are having EYE, NECK, or HEAD surgery - we recommend wearing a button-down shirt.
During surgery, you will be provided with a patient gown. We will provide you with a bag to keep your clothing in during the procedure.
Support Arrangements
Be sure to have a responsible person drive you and accompany you home. You will not be permitted to drive yourself home after anesthesia.
It is important that you have a responsible party stay with you for the entire first night following your procedure. Patients with children should consider making child care arrangements. For 48 hours following surgery you could feel drowsy or nauseated so do not plan any activities during that time.
Family and Friends
Limit the number of people who accompany you to the Surgical Center. To maximize the comfort of all visitors, we suggest that only 1 person accompany patients. Generally, you may have your support person stay with you until just before your procedure. When you’re procedure is ready to begin, they may leave and take advantage of the close by shopping and restaurants. They should leave their cell phone number for safety. An estimated pick-up time will be given, but because your recovery time may vary we cannot ensure that you will be ready to leave. Please have your ride arrive promptly for pick-up.
Health Status Changes
If you experience health changes since your most recent visit to your surgeon, or on the day of your surgery - notify your surgeon's office immediately. Anyone with a fever or respiratory infection may have their surgery postponed.
FEMALES: If you suspect PREGNANCY, please notify the surgeon. Anesthesia and medications can be harmful to a developing fetus.
Day of Surgery
• Please arrive at the time given to you by your surgeon.
• Bring your Insurance Card and form of picture I.D.
• Bring a list of all medications that you are currently taking.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing and shoes.
• Remember not to wear any jewelry and leave all valuables at home.
• Bring a form of payment or Co-payment if required per your insurance policy.
• Be sure to have a responsible person drive and accompany you home after your surgery.
After Surgery
After surgery you will be taken to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit where specially trained Recovery Room Nurses will care for you while you wake up. The Medical Staff will discharge you when they are assured that you are in stable condition. However, you could still feel sleepy, slightly dizzy, or nauseated. These are possible and normal side effects of the anesthesia, and can last for 24-48 hours.
Follow any specific discharge Instructions given by your surgeon regarding diet, rest, exercise and medication. These instructions are designed to aid in your recovery and prevent complications.
Following discharge:
• Contact your doctor's office if any problems occur after you arrive home
• Physician's telephone will be included on your Discharge Instructions
Wait at least 24-hours after you arrive home to:
• Drive
• Operate any equipment
• Sign any important papers
• Make any important decisions
• Drink any alcoholic beverages
• Take any medicine not prescribed or acknowledged by your surgeon
You will be given a Quality Assessment Survey after your procedure. We welcome your comments on how we can maintain or improve care here at Surgical Arts. Please fill it out and mail it back to us. You may sign it or remain anonymous.
The staff at the Surgical Arts Surgical Center wishes you well in your recovery.