Once you have been scheduled for your surgery, our team here at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center will begin our job of providing a smooth, safe surgical experience for you.
Our admissions department will contact you to make sure that we have accurate information regarding your address, contacts, and insurance information.
A nurse from our admitting office will contact you within the week before your surgery for a preoperative interview. It is important that you share your medical history, so that potential risks can be identified before you receive anesthesia. We need a list of all your current medications (including any herbals, vitamins, and over the counter medications); and the dosages which you are taking. It is also important to know if you are using any street drugs or alcohol.
If you have a history of heart or lung problems, you may need to visit your cardiologist or internist to receive a physical to ensure that you are in the best possible physical condition prior to receiving anesthesia and surgery. Testing may be ordered (lab work, electrocardiograms, X-rays, etc.) depending on your age, type of surgery, and physical condition. If your surgeon indicates that a blood transfusion may be necessary, and you would like to donate your own blood or have a family member do so, you will need to do this at least two to three weeks prior to your surgery with the approval of your surgeon.
Our nurse will give you instructions regarding what to do on the day of your surgery. This will include what time to arrive, what to bring, and what to leave at home. It is important not to have anything to eat or drink at least eight hours prior to receiving anesthesia to avoid aspirating stomach contents into the lungs which may cause pneumonia, or lead to more serious complications.
For your safety, if you will be discharged home the same day of your surgery after receiving anesthesia, you will need a responsible person to drive you home and to stay with you for 24 hours. You will not be permitted to go home alone in a cab.
Our admitting coordinators will be glad to answer your questions prior to your surgery. We want you to know what to expect on your surgery day, and how to best prepare for surgery. We are here to provide a safe experience for you and to make you as comfortable as possible.
Reference: 2006-2008 Standards of Perianesthesia Nursing Practice
