Preparing For Surgery

Pre-Screening

Before your procedure, your physician will schedule you for any necessary tests, which may include blood samples, x-rays or EKG. These tests help your physician understand if you have any medical problems that might cause complications. During your Pre Op Screening Call, you will need to provide a list of medications that you are currently taking, including the dosage (strength) and how often you take them. You should also list any over-the-counter, herbal or vitamin products.

Making arrangements for your surgery

Safe surgeries take time to prepare for and recover from. When making arrangements for the day of your surgery, please be aware that you will be at the surgery center for 1-2 hours prior to your procedure and 1-4 hours following, in addition to the amount of time your procedure will take. Your pro-op consultation nurse can help you better understand your time commitment so you can make arrangements.

You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and stay to assist you until your anesthesia has completely worn off and you feel able to move at your normal pace. A special waiting area is available in the surgery center for patient's guests, although seating is limited and we ask for your consideration of other patients.

A member of Physicians' Surgery Center will call you the day prior to your surgery to confirm your arrival time, review your instructions and answer any questions you may have.

Please review the following instructions and contact your physician or the surgery center directly with any questions. For safety reasons, your surgery may need to be rescheduled if you do not follow these instructions.

Week before your surgery
  • It is recommended that you stop using tobacco products 30 days prior to surgery. You must stop using them at least 24 hours prior to your procedure.
  • Only take anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, as directed by your physician.
Day before your surgery
  • Inform your physician early in the day if you have a cold, infection, fever or illness of any kind.
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight the day before your surgery or procedure. This includes gum, candy or mints as well as clear and non-clear liquids such as water, milk, juice, coffee or soda.
  • Do not drink any alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to your surgery.
Day of surgery
  • Do not chew or eat any gum, candy or mints the morning of your surgery or procedure.
  • Take your blood pressure, heart, thyroid or seizure medication in the morning with a very small sip of water unless your physician tells you otherwise.
  • Use your inhaler or eye drops unless your physician tells you otherwise. Ask your physician or the surgery center nurse for instructions about taking other medications.
  • Brush your teeth - but do not swallow any water.
  • DO plan to arrive at the time instructed.
  • DO bring a case for your contact lenses or glasses and/or dentures. Dentures or partial plates may be removed prior to your surgery or procedure.
  • Shower or bathe at home before coming to the surgery center. Follow any instructions from your physician, such as showering with a special soap (e.g. Hibiclens).
What to wear
  • Do not wear false eyelashes. Remove all makeup, including nail polish, before you leave home.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. If you are having a procedure on your upper body or head, a button-down shirt is recommended. If you are having a lower-extremity surgery, loose fitting pants or shorts with a zipper are recommended. You will be provided with a hospital gown to wear during your procedure.
What to bring
  • A complete list of all medications you take, listing strength, dose and frequency.
  • A copy of your Advance Directives, such as a living will or Power of Attorney for Healthcare.
  • Insurance or Medicare identification cards and any special pre-authorization paperwork.
  • A photo ID for registration.
  • Do not bring any valuables with you, including jewelry, electronics or money.