Do I need a follow up appointment with the surgeon?
Your surgeon will instruct you when to return for a follow up visit. This will be discussed prior to discharge. Please call your surgeon’s office to schedule or change this appointment.
Does someone have to drive me home?
Yes, you will need a responsible adult age 18 or older to drive you home from your procedure. In addition, you will need an adult to stay with you for the next 24 hours following surgery.
Which medications do I take? Which medications do I stop?
The pre-operative phone nurse will instruct you on which medications you may continue taking and which ones you must discontinue prior to surgery or to hold on the day of surgery.
Do I need a pregnancy test?
Any female that is of childbearing age and/or menstruating will be required to have a pregnancy test. Patients who have had a tubal ligation over one year ago or had a hysterectomy will not be required to have a pregnancy test.
Will my child have an IV?
Your child may need an IV depending on the type of surgery to be performed. Timing of the IV placement will be determined by the doctor.
Who completes my disability forms?
Your surgeon’s office will assist you with filling out disability or work related forms.
When can I go back to work?
Your surgeon will tell you when it is safe for you to return to work or school.
Will I need crutches?
Your surgeon will instruct you to use crutches if necessary. If you do not currently own crutches, arrangement can be made to help you obtain them.
What is an Advanced Directive?
An Advanced Directive is documentation of your wishes in relation to health care and end of life care in case you are unable to express your desires because your illness has limited your capacity to do so. It is only used for health care purposes and does not include wishes about financial or property issues.
Where will my family be while I’m in surgery?
Your family will be directed to the waiting area during your surgery. The surgeon will speak to your family following your procedure. The nurse will determine when the time is appropriate for your family to come back and visit.
