Preparing for Surgery
Will I need a pre-operative evaluation before my surgery?
Not every patient requires an evaluation to be medically cleared for surgery. This is determined by an individuals medical history.
- If further evaluation is required, you may need specific tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or blood work. Our front-desk staff will help arrange for these.
- Depending on where your surgery is scheduled you may either have to go to Faulkner Hospital or your Primary Care Physician for your pre-operative evaluation. Be prepared with a list of your current medications, relevant test reports, and a list of doctor’s that care for you. If you are scheduled for surgery at Foxborough’s Day Surgery Unit, you will receive a call from a nurse 3-14 days before surgery. Once you’ve been cleared at your pre-operative evaluation you will be approved for surgery.
When do I find out what time my surgery is scheduled for?
One business day prior to your surgery, you will receive a call from a hospital representative between 1-4pm to inform you of your arrival time for surgery.
How do I prepare the night before my surgery?
We ask that you please, not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This is for your safety while under anesthesia.
How should I be prepared for the day of surgery?
On the day of surgery you should be prepared with the following:
- Arrive 1-2 hours before your surgery ( you will be notified of this time the day before).
- Have arranged and confirm an escort home, as you will not be allowed to drive home after being under anesthesia. Have contact information of escort available to be contacted after surgery.
- Do not use any hair styling or spray products the day of your surgery.
- Bring certain medications, if you were told to bring them.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Do not wear contacts; bring eye-glasses
- Bring identification
What happens after I come out of surgery?
After your surgery you will be brought into a recovery area known as The Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). While here, you will cared for by the PACU nurses. They will ask you a lot of questions about how you are feeling, to make you as comfortable as possible. Your nurse will provide you with discharge/ surgeon instructions for you to go home with. You will receive a phone call the following day to see how you are feeling and to answer any additional questions.
