Surgery Information
Preparing for surgery is very important. To insure patient’s comfort and reduce the risk of any complications during surgery, please read the following instructions carefully. In the event that these instructions are not followed, surgery may be subject to cancellation.
Surgeons may plan for certain laboratory tests or X-rays prior to being admitted. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions completely to avoid delays or cancellation of your procedure.
Food and drink
Do not eat or drink anything after 11 p.m. the day before surgery (including gum or mints) unless your surgeon has advised you otherwise.
Smoking
Do not smoke after 11 p.m. the day before surgery. Smoking causes bronchial irritation and may increase the likelihood of breathing problems during and after anesthesia.
Clothing and hygiene
On the morning of surgery patients should bathe or shower, and remove all make-up, nail polish and jewelry. Patients should wear loose-fitting casual clothing and comfortable shoes. We ask that patients please leave all valuables at home.
Pregnancy
If you suspect you are pregnant, please notify your surgeon immediately. Anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing fetus.
Changes in health
Please report any changes in health to your surgeon, even minor changes such as a cough, cold or fever.
Beginning your day of surgery
We schedule our patients one hour before surgery. This enable our staff to complete your registration, obtain needed medical tests, complete a medical history and prepare you for surgery. If you will be late arriving or you cannot keep your surgery appointment, please notify us at 606.526.7874.
Patient assistance
One responsible adult should accompany adult patients. If the patient is a child, both parents are welcome to accompany the child to the Surgical Center. An adult should stay with the child after they return home.
Preparing for surgery
You will be escorted to the pre-operative area by the Registered Nurse who will be caring for you. In the pre-op area, you will meet the anesthesiologist who will review your history, answer your questions and discuss the anesthesia plan. After preparation for surgery is complete, a family member may sit with you until time for your surgery.
Your Surgery
The next step is your surgery. The Registered Nurse who will be assisting your surgeon will take you to the surgery suite. Each operating room is fully equipped and staffed to handle your surgery needs.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is a medication that keeps patients from feeling pain during surgery. Your anesthesia provider will explain the anesthesia options best suited for you. There are three different types of anesthesia used during surgery:
- Regional Anesthesia numbs one region of your body
- Monitored sedation makes you drowsy or lightly asleep
- General Anesthesia makes you completely asleep
Going Home
When you are ready to leave, you may still feel drowsy. It is our goal to expedite your visit in the most efficient manner as possible while keeping your safety in mind. Before leaving, your nurse will review home instructions.
If you have problems after discharge, contact your physician or nearest hospital.