Your Day of Surgery
Registration
Arrive at the Surgicenter at the time you have been given by the center. Upon check-in, we will ask that you show your picture ID and complete any outstanding registration paperwork.
Pre-Surgery
After changing into a surgical gown, a nurse will place a surgical ID on your wrist. Together, you will review your medical history, medications and supplements. Inform the nurse if there is a possibility you are pregnant. Your surgical consent will be reviewed, if you have any questions about your consent or your procedure, those will be answered by your surgeon prior to you signing your consent.
The anesthesiologist will assess your vital signs, lab results or tests, and ask more details about your health history, medications and any previous anesthesia experiences. The assessment will determine the appropriate anesthesia for your procedure, for which you will sign the anesthesia consent.
Your physician anesthesiologist will keep you safe and comfortable before, during and after surgery.
Your surgeon will visit with you and make sure you are well prepared answering any remaining questions you may have about your procedure.
Surgery
When you first arrive in the OR, it may take you a few minutes to adjust to the bright lights and cool temperature. You will be assisted to the operating room bed and your nurse will be close at hand for an extra warm blanket and to attend to your needs. Your physician anesthesiologist will be present throughout your procedure to keep you safe and comfortable.
Recovery After Surgery
You will be moved to a recovery room or bay depending on your procedure. A nurse will monitor your progress and give you medications for comfort. Recovery time varies by patient and procedure. In some cases, recovery lasts one hour; others require longer stays, occasionally including overnight. When you are medically cleared for discharge, we will go over discharge instructions with you and your companion.
Rest at Home
You will feel the residual effects of anesthesia for 24 hours following surgery. If you take additional oral pain medication, you will continue to feel sedated even after the anesthesia has worn off. Do not drive a vehicle or make important decisions. Do not drink alcohol while taking pain medication. Rest under the supervision of a trusted adult who can follow up on discharge orders and oversee your progress. If you experience any complications or adverse effects, call your doctor or 911.
A Surgicenter nurse will call to check on you the next day. Continue to rest until fully recovered. Follow your doctor’s instructions for return to normal activities.
Your Experience at the Surgicenter Is Important to Us.
Please take a few moments to complete our patient survey