PRE & POST OP INSTRUCTIONS

General Information

Before you come

     Your Surgeon will review with you the details of having your surgery performed at the Center. A nurse will contact you within a few days of your procedure to review your medical history, to give your pre-op instructions and your arrival time.  If you have any special contact information, or if you have not heard from us by 4:00 pm the day before your procedure, please call 215-914-4600.

Surgery center fees

    Standard fees for most surgical procedures have been established, so you will know in advance the cost of the services provided to you.

Costs included in quoted charges

     Admission processing and procedures, pre-anesthesia examination, pre-op, operating room and recovery rooms, medications and medical supplies required to provide care during your stay

Costs not included in quoted charges

        Professional fees for services provided by your surgeon, anesthesiologist and pathologist, any insurance co-pays or deductibles.

Explanation of ownership

       Your physician may be a partner in the ownership of Huntingdon Valley Surgery Center.

Patient’s rights and responsibilities, Grievance Policy, and patient’s Right to Self Determination

        Your surgeon’s office will supply you with written and verbal information regarding these issues prior to your procedure. You may also obtain a packet at the Center prior to the day of your procedure. This information is also available on our website: www.huntingdonvalleysurgerycenter.com.

Preparation for Surgery

The Night before Surgery

•             Please do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the evening before your surgery, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.

•             If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, diabetes or seizure disorders, contact your surgeon for additional instructions.

•             Medications and anesthesia may be harmful to a fetus, especially in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. If there is the possibility of pregnancy, please contact your surgeon prior to undergoing surgery.

•             Notify your surgeon of any changes in your health or if you have been exposed to any communicable diseases.

•             Please do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to your surgery.

•             Smoking 24 hours before or after surgery may be detrimental to your recovery.

The Morning of Surgery

•             Please bring your photo ID, insurance card and co-pay/deductible if necessary.

•             Bathe the morning of surgery. If you shampoo your hair, make sure it is dry and do not use hairspray. Do not use any lotions, creams, powders or make-up. Remove all body piercings.

•             Do not wear contact lenses.

•             You may brush your teeth, but do not swallow any water.

•             Wear loose fitting, casual clothing that can be easily removed.

•             Do not bring jewelry or other valuables to the center.

•             Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking with you on the day of surgery. Include the dosages and the number of times a day you take them.

•             Bring a written list of known allergies, as well as your reactions.

Prior to Surgery

•             Patients must sign a surgical consent form before any medication can be given or surgery performed.

•             Minors must have a parent or legal guardian sign a consent form before surgery can be performed. Parent or guardian must stay at the center.

•             You will not be permitted to drive yourself home if you receive sedation or general anesthesia. Transportation arrangements must be made prior to the day of your procedure which includes to be taken home by a responsible adult over the age of 18 with a valid driver’s license. This person is encouraged to remain at the center during your procedure. If they are unable to do so, they must provide a telephone number where they can be easily contacted.

•             A patient receiving local sedation only, may be permitted to drive him/herself home, at the discretion of the surgeon.

Following Surgery

Recovery

•             After your procedure, you will be moved to our Recovery Room where you will be monitored until you are ready for discharge.

At Home

•             Depending on your procedure, you may need someone at home with you for the first 24 hours afterwards.

•             Do not drive, sign important papers or make critical decisions for at least 24 hours.

•             Do not operate machinery, power tools, etc. for at least 24 hours.

•             Do not drink alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours.

•             A representative of the Center will contact you after surgery to inquire about your condition.

•             Your surgeon will provide you with post-operative instructions regarding diet, rest and medication. In the event of any difficulties or complications, call your surgeon immediately.

•             In case of an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room.