Get the Answers to Common Questions

How can I prepare for my surgery?

Your Surgeon will decide if you need a preadmission appointment. If so, your appointment with one of our preadmit nurses will be scheduled prior to the surgery day. Preadmit appointments are scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For questions regarding your preadmit appointment, please call the Integrated Patient Scheduling Department at (574) 523-3444.

If you are not scheduled for a preadmit appointment, a preadmit nurse will call you prior to your surgery date to review your medical history and answer any questions you might have. If you have not received a call from the preadmit nurse 24 Hours prior to your procedure, please call (574) 389-7364.

What happens if I become ill prior to my surgery?

If you develop a fever, cough, cold or flu symptoms within 5 days of your surgery please notify your doctor. If you are ill the morning of your surgery, please call the Surgery Department at (574) 523-3334.

When will I be notified of my surgery arrival time?

You will be contacted 24 hours prior to your procedure. If you do not have a home phone, or prefer to call us for your arrival time, please call (574) 523-3334 anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. the day before your surgery. Please note: Monday surgery patients should call or be notified the Friday prior to the surgery. For surgeries scheduled the day after a holiday, your arrival time will be available the day prior to the holiday.

Can I eat or drink before my surgery?

No. Do not eat, drink, or take any medicines (including insulin) from midnight the evening prior to your surgery, unless otherwise directed by your physician, anesthesiologist, or pre-op nurse. This includes water, food, gum, candy, and breath mints. You may brush your teeth and rinse your mouth as long as you don't swallow any water. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in the cancellation of your surgery.

Should I shower or bathe before surgery?

Yes. Take a shower or tub bath and shampoo your hair, either the evening before or the morning of your surgery, unless otherwise directed by your physician. Do not wear any facial or eye makeup to the hospital the day of your surgery.

What should I do when I arrive at the hospital the day of surgery?

At the previously arranged arrival time, check in at the Admitting Department inside the Hospital Main Lobby. After completing the registration process, you will be shown to the Outpatient Surgery Department (Total Joints patients will be shown to the TJU). Once in the Outpatient Surgery area, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and robe. A locker or personal items bag will be provided where you can store your clothing. Please bring only necessary items, since storage space is limited. You will have an opportunity to meet and ask questions of the healthcare professionals who will provide your care.

Can I bring visitors with me?

Yes, but please remember that children find waiting difficult in our quiet environment. For this reason, we urge you to make other arrangements for children. To ensure the privacy and confidentiality of all patients, visitors should be kept to a minimum. Your family and friends may be asked to wait in the Surgery Waiting Area where the physician will talk to them after your surgery. Your visitors may rejoin you after you return to Outpatient Surgery.

How long will I be at the hospital?

Depending on the surgery preformed and how well you feel, your length of stay will vary. When you are contacted by the hospital before your surgery, a time estimate may be available. Keep in mind that emergencies do cause alternations or delays in schedule.

Do I need someone to drive me home after the surgery?

Yes. It is not safe to drive after surgery. The medications you'll receive for surgery may make you feel dizzy, tired, or light-headed.

What can I do after I get home from the hospital?

When you are discharged, the nurse will review a list of written instructions related to your surgery. After signing this paper, you will receive a copy for your reference. Once you have been driven home, someone will need to stay with you for 6-24 hours depending on the type of anesthesia you receive.