Preparing for Your Surgery

How do I prepare myself for surgery?

Before your surgery, you will be asked to complete a preoperative history and physical with your primary care physician. This needs to be accomplished within seven days prior to your surgery. The results can be faxed to (651) 968-5491, and you should hand carry the original form.

Our nursing staff will contact you one or two days before your procedure to verify your arrival time, review your medical history, and answer any specific questions you may have. If you are not available, or do not receive this call, please contact us between 6 a.m.–4 p.m., M-F, at (651) 968-5468.

Take your routine medications as directed by your physician, but only with a sip of water.

Adults and children (over one year old) should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight. This includes gum, mints, etc.

Infants (under 12 months old) may have clear liquids up to two hours before surgery. The following are considered acceptable clear liquids your child may have before surgery: water, pop, Kool-Aid, Popsicles, apple juice, and Jell-O. Discontinue formula/breast milk feeding six hours prior to surgery.

Refrain from smoking after midnight the day before your surgery. Alcohol is prohibited 24 hours prior to surgery.

Discontinue the use of Tylenol and/or other pain medication at midnight the day before surgery unless otherwise directed by your physician.

Discontinue the use of Vitamin E three weeks prior to surgery.

Failure to follow the preceding guidelines will result in cancelling your surgery.

Do not wear make-up or fingernail polish on the day of surgery. Acrylic nails do not need to be removed.

Please leave all valuables at home.

Please bathe or shower before surgery. This will minimize the risk of infection.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that will accommodate your scheduled procedure, including the possibility of a large dressing, brace, or sling. Elastic or waistband clothing is preferred.

Please make necessary arrangements for your family, pets, and other responsibilities so you can devote your full attention to your recovery.

What will happen after my procedure?

Immediately after your surgery, our skilled nursing staff will see you through your recovery from anesthesia. Then your family will join you and together you will be given both written and verbal discharge instructions to prepare you for your departure home. Each patient will receive individualized care from our experienced nursing staff.

What should I bring to the surgery center?

Upon your arrival at our surgery center, a receptionist will be here to greet you, give you your presurgical paperwork and assist you with your forms. Please bring with you:

Your insurance card and your pharmacy card
Your preoperative history and physical
If your child is the patient, please bring his/her social security number
A complete list of your current medications
A list of any known allergies
Any medical forms requested by your doctor
If you regularly use nitroglycerine, insulin, or other “as needed” medications, please bring them with you to the surgery center
Any medical equipment used at home, such as breathing devices or walkers
Your driver’s license or photo ID
Hearing aide(s) and a case for your glasses or contacts if you wear them
Your co-insurance payment (if applicable)

Do not bring:

Rings, jewelry, valuables, or cash
Siblings, or other small children (our waiting area is small and shared with others waiting)

Can I drive after surgery?

No. For your safety, we cannot permit you to leave the facility by yourself or drive yourself home. Please have a designated driver take you home. As a rule, public transportation is not appropriate after surgery. If any problems develop after you return home, please contact your physician immediately.

If your driver chooses to leave the facility during the surgery, please have them provide a phone number where they can be reached.

Important things to remember

If you have a change in your physical condition—such as a cold, fever, or important change in your condition for which you are having surgery—contact your surgeon.

If you need to contact the surgery center, please call (651) 968-5468, M-F, 6 a.m.–4 p.m.