Preparing for Surgery

Same-Day Surgery Operating Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Preparing for Surgery: 

Prior to surgery, you will meet with your surgeon and he/she will explain the benefits and risks associated with your procedure. You and your surgeon will choose a day and time and will schedule this with our surgery department.

Our pre-admission teaching nurse will call you to review your medical history or set up an appointment for you to come in and meet with her. This usually takes place two weeks prior to your procedure. During your visit, she will gather information regarding your general health. You will be asked to sign a surgical consent and other necessary forms. If your surgeon has ordered any lab work, x-rays, or EKG, they will also be completed at this time. If you are unable to come in prior to the day of surgery, the nurse will take a phone history and the remaining items will be completed on the day of surgery.

It is advised that you follow these recommended steps prior to any surgery:  

• Quit smoking or at least cut down before surgery
• Stop drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before surgery
• Advise the pre-admission nurse of any illegal drug use or herbal supplements
• Ask your surgeon about taking any meds before surgery
• Arrange rides to and from the hospital
• Do not eat or drink anything after the time specified by your surgeon (this includes gum, mints, candy and chewing tobacco)
• Call your doctor if you develop a fever, cold, or rash
• Plan for aftercare such as transportation, home care, or skilled care
• Provide the hospital with a copy of your advanced medical direction if you have one 

Day of Surgery:

It is normal to feel apprehensive before surgery. Please remember that your surgeon and surgical team have done this procedure many times.

Before you leave home:

• Using antibacterial soap such as Dial, shower or bathe the night before and the morning of your surgery
• No makeup, lipstick, fingernail polish, or hair products
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Leave all valuables at home including jewelry, cash, credit card, etc. 

Be sure to bring:

• Insurance cards or forms and photo ID
• A list of medications and dosages you routinely take
• A parent or legal guardian if under age 18 

Check-in:

• Please report to the admission desk and sign any forms.
• You will be directed either to Same Day Services or Inpatient Services (if you'll be spending the night).
• You will change into a hospital gown.
• The nurse will place an identification bracelet and allergy bracelet (if necessary) on your wrist and verify your name and date of birth are correct.
• You will remove your glasses, dentures, and hearing aids if necessary.
• An IV will be started in your arm or hand to provide medications and fluids. 

Surgery:

• A nurse will take you to the operating room.
• You will be asked to state your name, date of birth and what procedure your having done.
• You will have monitors attached that show the staff your blood pressure, heart functions, and oxygen levels.