Patient Information
Information About Your Ambulatory Procedure
Our primary concern is for your quick and healthy recovery from your same-day surgical procedure. Here is important information about how to prepare for your procedure and what to expect. Please read it carefully and let us know if you have any questions.
Before your surgery
All patients must complete the pre-admission survey in order to complete your surgical registration. Please click the link below and enter code: ASCSM215NEW
If you are unable to complete this step on your own or have questions, please call our Preadmission Nurse at (215) 809-2635 and we will help you complete the survey over the phone.
A pre-admission interview will be done by a registered nurse prior to your scheduled day of surgery. The nurse will review your medical history and your medication with you.
A member of the Ambulatory Surgery Center healthcare team will contact you the day before your procedure to review your instructions, answer your questions, and tell you what time to arrive at the Center for your procedure.
The Center is open between the hours of 6:30 am and 4:00 pm. Pre-op phone calls are routinely made between the hours of 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. If you have not heard from us by 2:00 pm the day before your scheduled procedure, please call us at 215-809-2600. Calls received after 4:00 pm will be returned the next business day.
In the event you need to cancel your scheduled surgery, please notify your physician’s office.
Medications instructions for taking or withholding medicines, especially for heart problems, blood pressure, diabetes, and / or seizures should be reviewed with your physician prior to the day of your surgery. If you become ill within a few days before your procedure, even with just a mild cold or flu symptoms, notify your physician.
Transportation arrangements need to be made prior to the day of your procedure. You will not be allowed to drive after receiving general anesthesia or sedation. You must arrange for someone to drive you home. That person should plan to stay at the Center during your procedure. Arrangements can be made to contact your ride when you are ready for discharge.
In rare cases, hospital admission may become necessary after anesthesia. The Ambulatory Surgery Center has a transfer agreement with St. Mary Medical Center to facilitate such circumstances. Your should talk to your doctor if you have questions about your unique medical situation.
On the Day of Your Procedure
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before your procedure unless your physician tells you otherwise.
Take all medications as instructed by your doctor with a small sip of water.
Arrive promptly at your scheduled time so you have adequate time for all necessary admission procedures.
Wear loose fitting clothing. You may take a bath or shower prior to arrival, but do not use any lotions, creams, powders, or makeup.
Bring eyeglasses and/or hearing aids if you rely on them. Remove contact lenses and leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
Bring a list of your medications, including dosage and how many times per day you take them. Bring a list of any allergies.
A parent or legal guardian must accompany patients under 18 and remain at the Center during the entire visit. Legal guardians must provide proof of guardianship for medical treatment.
We are a smoke-free facility.
Recovery
After your surgery we will move you to our post-anesthetic care unit and monitor you until you are ready for discharge. Although the time varies, most patients are discharged 1 to 2 hours after surgery.
At your home
You must arrange for responsible adult to accompany you home from the Center and be available for you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.
Your surgeon will provide postoperative instructions regarding diet, activities, and medications. In the event of any problem, notify your surgeon.
It is normal to feel a bit sleepy and/or dizzy for several hours after your procedure. Don’t sign any important papers or make any significant decisions until this feeling has worn off. Do not drive or consume alcoholic beverages until the day after surgery at the earliest. We encourage you to refrain from smoking.
Parents – if your child is nervous or doesn’t know what to expect, the slideshow below may help!
