Will I be contacted prior to my surgery by the facility?

Yes. You may receive up to three calls. You will be contacted a few days prior to surgery by a member of your health care team. This call will include a routine health assessment, instructions for the day of surgery and answers to any questions you may have. You may also be contacted by someone in the facility’s business office to address financial matters such as your responsibility for copayments and deductibles. Finally, you may also be contacted by your anesthesiologist.

What tests are required prior to my surgery?

Your physician or anesthesiologist will let your know prior to the date of your surgery about any preoperative tests.

What should I bring?

• Please bring a photo identification and your insurance card(s). Our staff will need to verify and make copies when you check in on the day of your surgery.
• Be sure to bring any medications that you may need during your stay at the facility. Do not bring narcotics.
• Please bring a list of all drugs you are currently taking.
• Please bring payment of any patient responsibility (e.g., copayment or deductible).
• Please do not bring rings, watches or other valuables.

Should I arrange a ride to the facility?

Yes. You will not be allowed to drive after surgery. Please arrange for an adult to drive you home and for someone to be with you when you arrive.

What may I eat and drink before surgery?

Your physician or a preoperative nurse will inform you of eating and drinking restrictions prior to surgery. It is very important that you follow the provided instructions. If you do not, your surgery may be delayed or cancelled.

Should I take my routine medications on the day of surgery?

You will be given instructions regarding medications by your physician or a staff member. Also, as noted above, please be prepared to list all medications (including name and dose) you are taking and to bring any with you that may be needed during your stay. Exception: Do not bring narcotics.

What can I do to help ensure that I have the proper procedure on the correct surgical site?

Your safety is our primary concern. Your entire health care team will follow rigorous guidelines regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. National Patient Safety Goals have been developed which require your involvement, too. You will be asked numerous times to confirm both the procedure you are having and the surgical site. You should take a very active role in all discussions with your physician, your anesthesia provider and our staff regarding the identification of your procedure and the correct surgical site. In most cases, your surgeon will mark the site prior to your procedure.

What can I do to help prevent a surgical site infection?

• Take a shower the night before and the morning of surgery. Follow these simple steps:
  1. Wash your hair first with any shampoo.
  2. Wash all of your body using a liquid antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth for
      each shower.
  3. Rinse well to remove all soap.
  4. Dry your body with a clean towel.
  5. Do not use lotion, cream or powder.
  6. Do not shave or clip the area where the surgery will be done unless your physician
      directs you to do so.
• On the day of your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash hands frequently while at the facility and at home following your surgery. Also, do not hesitate to ask members of your health care team at the facility if they have washed their hands!
• After your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash their hands frequently. Also, be sure you follow all instructions provided by your health care team regarding the care and cleaning of your surgical site as well as the administration of post-operative medications and bandages.

Are there special considerations for a child having surgery?

We realize that surgery can be frightening for you and your child. The preoperative call with the facility nurse is a great time to arrange a tour of the facility to ease any fears you both may be experiencing. If your child would like to have a stuffed animal or security blanket for added comfort, feel free to bring these items on the day of surgery. In the case of young children having surgery, it is best to have someone along with the driver to help care for the child on the trip home. If you experience any health changes between your most recent visit with your physician and the date of surgery, notify your physician immediately. Please report even minor changes, such as an elevated temperature, cough or cold. If you cannot reach your physician, please call the facility.

What if I think I might be pregnant?

Please be sure to notify your physician, anesthesiologist and nurse prior to the date of surgery if you think you may be pregnant. The surgical procedure, anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing baby.