Pre-Operative Instructions

• Benefits of having surgery at our facility
• Before Surgery: Steps You Can Take
• What to do the Day of Surgery
• Going Home on the Day of Surgery
• Bowel Prep Instructions

Going Home on the Day of Surgery?

• Post Operation: The type of surgery and anesthesia largely determines the postoperative course. Once patients have met specific criteria regarding surgery and anesthesia, they are transferred back to Outpatient Surgery for the final phase of recovery. Family/friends may be at the bedside, according to the patient's preference. An average length of stay is approximately one hour. During this time, patients are monitored; assessed and any post-operative issues are addressed. Drinks and light nourishments are available.

• Home Readiness: Very few people need to stay overnight when outpatient surgery is planned. Home readiness rather than street fitness is the goal after outpatient surgery. This means a patient is ready to go home for further recuperation. But, it is common to feel sleepy, drowsy, or slightly nauseated after a surgical procedure.

• Self-care: Patients are given verbal as well as corresponding written instructions for self-care, including a follow-up appointment plan and an emergency contact number.

• Medication/Prescription Drugs: Use of the prescribed medication for pain control will be addressed and discussed with patients prior to discharge. Prescription(s) should be filled at the patient's pharmacy. The Hospital does not have an Outpatient Pharmacy and it is unlawful for us to dispense medications for home use. Following the dosing instructions to prevent complications from occurring is very important. Patients should also report any unusual reactions to their surgeon. Patients who have stopped taking medications in preparation for surgery, should ask their nurse or surgeon about resuming those medications.

• Activity: Patients should not resume any recreational or professional activities immediately. Follow your physician's instructions.

• Transportation: Once a patient has met the discharge criteria, he/she will be discharged home. If a family member is present, the nurse will send them to bring the car to the main hospital entrance. Surgical patients are escorted (wheelchair or ambulatory) to the main entrance and helped into the car. If necessary, a nurse will call the driver (name/telephone number should be provided prior to surgery).