A Guide to Preparing for Surgery
We want you to feel comfortable as you prepare for surgery or a stay at our hospital, which is why we have provided helpful resources about our staff, our facilities, and tips for staying healthy both prior to and post-treatment.
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Preparing for Surgery
Wondering what area of the hospital you will be in for your surgery? Your physician will advise you on whether you will go to Pre-Surgery Admitting or Outpatient/Children's Surgery Center. If you have further questions on this, you can always give us a call.
Pre-Operative Tests & Registration
You may be required to take pre-operative tests, as ordered by your physician, such as an EKG or X-rays. These must be completed three to five days before surgery. Tests can be performed in the hospital Clinical Laboratory (open Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 8:00pm and Sat: 8:00am - 4:00pm), EKG Department and/or Diagnostic Imaging (X-ray) Dept. (open 24 hours a day). Please be sure to bring your doctor's written order describing the pre-operative tests.
You may pre-register online or you may receive a call from our Admitting Department to complete pre-registration information.
The Day Before Surgery
The day before your surgery, a nurse may call you to obtain a medical history, confirm your arrival time and location and answer any questions you may have. If you have not been contacted by 1:00pm on the day before surgery, please call us: Pre-Surgery Admitting: (408) 559-2462 or Outpatient/Children's Surgery Center: (408) 559-2157.
Read through the following for helpful pre-surgery tips:
Eating, drinking, and smoking: Each surgical procedure may require different preparation. Please follow your physician's instructions about diet and preparation.
Anesthesia: The anesthesiologist who will attend you during surgery may call you the night before. This will be an opportunity for you to give input and ask questions about your care.
Illness: If you develop a cold, persistent cough, sore throat, fever or any other illness during the two days before surgery, please notify your physician immediately.
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, please notify your physicians prior to your surgery. This can help prevent further complications.
Medications: If you usually take medications in the morning, ask your doctor if you should take them before surgery. If you are advised to do so, take them with as little water as possible.
If you are diabetic: Please follow your doctor's instructions about insulin or oral medication.
Personal hygiene: You may bathe or shower and brush your teeth before coming to the hospital. Avoid swallowing any water. Do not use perfumes, creams or lotions.
Clothing: Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. If you are having surgery above the waist, do not wear a pullover top. Wear shoes with low heels.
Hair: Wear your hair loosely. Avoid using clips, pins, and bands, as this could cause complications or other difficulties during the procedure.
The Day of Surgery
What time should I get to the hospital?
Please follow your doctor's instructions about when to arrive. Come into the hospital through the East Entrance and follow the signs for Pre-Surgery Admitting or Outpatient/Children's Surgery Center, depending on where you have been instructed to go. If you are not sure when your doctor wanted you to arrive, feel free to give our hospital a call to get clarification.
You should bring the following items:
- Any written orders from your doctor
- Insurance card
- Photo ID or driver's license
- Any payment needed for co-pays, deductibles or cash pay procedures
- A complete list of all medications you are currently taking
- Insulin, if you are diabetic
- Inhaler, if you use one
- Leave all valuables, including jewelry, at home
- Bring case for storage of dentures, hearing aids, glasses, contact lenses, etc.
May I have visitors?
One family member may stay with you before surgery. However, small children will not be permitted. During surgery, visitors may wait in our Surgery Waiting Room (see map), where the doctor will talk with them after surgery. Depending on how long you will be in the hospital following your surgery, you may be allowed more visitors. Speak with your doctor about this if you have any special requests or concerns.
Also note, if you are planning to go home the day of your surgery, you should make arrangements for a spouse, family member, or friend to drive you home and monitor you for the first 24 hours.
Have more questions?
Call Pre-Surgery Admitting: (408) 559-2462
Outpatient/Children's Surgery Center: (408) 559-2157