OUT-PATIENT & IN-PATIENT SURGERY SPINAL & ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY WOMEN’S HEALTH
BEFORE SURGERY:
You will be contacted by a member of our staff to ask a few preliminary questions, and to coordinate all other issues pertaining to your surgery.
Do not eat or drink anything after 12 midnight the day before your surgery, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor or by our nursing staff. This includes; water, chewing gum and mints. You may brush your teeth and rinse your mouth, but do not swallow the water.
Refrain from smoking for 48 hours before surgery.
Refrain from taking Aspirin, Motrin, Advil or any other medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
If you have a cold, flu, persistent cough or if any other health problem develops prior to surgery, notify your doctor immediately.
If you suspect you are pregnant, please notify your surgeon and our nurse.
Bathe or shower the morning of surgery.
DAY OF SURGERY:
Remove all make-up, nail polish and jewelry.
Wear loose comfortable clothing.
Arrive at the time given to you and report to the registration desk.
Bring your insurance card and any necessary forms.
You will change into a surgery gown. You will need to remove contact lenses, hearing aids and dentures.
If needed, pre-op testing will be done.
Limit the number of people that accompany you.
We can arrange for complimentary transportation.
AFTER SURGERY:
You will be taken to a recovery area called the Post Anesthesia Care Unit(PACU), Trained nurses will monitor you until the general effect of the anesthesia wears off.
Drowsiness may still persist for 24 hours.
Depending on the nature of your surgery, you may be discharged home or admitted to the hospital to continue your recovery.
DURING DISCHARGE:
A nurse will go over your post-operative instructions.
Please ask any questions you may have before leaving.
Bring an adult family member or friend on the day of surgery. A responsible adult will need to be with you during the first 24 hours following your surgery.
You should not drive or operate machinery, make important decisions, sign any legal papers or drink any alcoholic beverages until 24 hours after your surgery.
FOLLOW UP:
Our recovery staff will be contacting you the following day to see how you are feeling. If you have any questions or problems, please do not hesitate to ask them.
If you are having any problems prior to or after this call, contact your physician directly
Avoid fatty foods and eat lightly during your recovery.
Make sure you follow your doctors instructions on diet, medications, bathing and activity.
Home health services can be arranged for you when required based upon instructions by your doctor.
