Thanks to the miracle of science, surgeries that once required a hospital stay can now be done on an outpatient basis. That’s good news for those who recover better in the comfort of home, but it also means that any necessary arrangements must be made before the surgery date. If you or a loved one is facing outpatient surgery, try the suggestions below to help make the experience as smooth as possible.

Before Surgery

Your physician’s office will schedule your pre-admission appointment. Please bring all of your medications with you to your appointment so that they can be recorded. If you develop a cold, flu or fever before your surgery call your surgeon.

It is necessary to pre-register at least 24 hours prior to your surgery to ensure that your chart is ready for your arrival. The day before your scheduled surgery, the hospital staff will notify you with instructions and arrival time. If a deposit or co-payment is required, please bring it in the form of cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, debit card or money order.

Do not eat or drink anything (no gum, candy, mints or tobacco) after midnight the day before your surgery, unless instructed by your doctor or the pre-op nurse. (Not following these instructions could result in the delay or cancellation of your surgery.)

The Day of Your Surgery

• Shower or bathe with antibacterial soap. Unless you have been given other instructions by your doctor or the pre-op nurse, do not use body lotions or powder. Don't wear any makeup including eye makeup and nail polish.
• Brushing your teeth is permitted.
• Take medications as ordered by your surgeon, with only a sip of water before coming to the hospital.
• Leave your valuables at home. You will be asked to remove all jewelry including any body piercing. No pins or barrettes in hair. You will be asked to remove contact lenses, glasses, false teeth or partial plates before going into surgery.
• You can expect a one- to two-hour wait before your actual procedure. This allows the nurses time to complete your physical assessment, start your IV and draw additional lab work if necessary.
• Limit visitors to two per room.
• For infants, please bring diapers, formula and bottles. You may also want to bring a change of clothes/underwear, a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.*
• No smoking or tobacco use on the premises.
• For your safety, we require you to have a responsible adult to drive you home. Please make arrangements in advance. Surgery may be cancelled if you do not have an acceptable ride home.
• You will be asked your name and date of birth many times. This is a precaution to ensure your safety and verify correct patient identification. Also, you will be asked the name of your surgeon, what type of procedure you are having and which part of the body will be operated on. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, the surgeon will identify the operative site with a skin marker to ensure your safety and correct identification.

*All patients 18 years old and younger must have a parent or guardian present from the time of admission until the time of discharge.

After Your Surgery

You will be observed for a short time after surgery for any pain or complications. Your pain level will be assessed and pain medication will be given accordingly. You will be given specific post-operative instructions about limitations, medications, bandages and return appointments. Once you have met discharge criteria, you will be discharged to your family member or friend. You are not to drive a vehicle or operate any type of machinery for 24 hours after surgery.

Should you require immediate treatment for a problem following your surgery, please contact your surgeon’s answering service, or, in an emergency, call 9-1-1.