Information for Patients: Preparing for Anesthesia and Surgery

Admission to a Facility

When overnight or extended stay is needed, after a period of observation you’ll be taken to your room from the recovery area or the Postanesthesia Care Unit to your room. Your family/friend can wait in a designated waiting area where the surgeon will usually meet with them at the end of the procedure. Family/friend can join you in your room after you’re transferred there. Any personal belongings stored by hospital personnel and will be brought to your room.

When you arrive in the room you should meet your new nurse and should be shown how to contact that nurse for help. You should be taught how to use any electronic equipment available to you. Appropriate diet and activity levels, available medications for you (for pain, nausea, sleeping), and any prescribed medicines like antibiotics should be explained to you. 

As always, you remain a partner in your care and recovery. Ask questions when you have them and give feedback that will aid in your recovery and discharge to home.

• Pre-anesthetic Interview/Testing
• What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
• Preoperative Holding Area
• What to Expect in the Operating Room
• What to Expect in the Postanesthesia Care Unit
• Admission to a Facility
• Outpatient Surgery
• What to Expect if You Are Going Home on the Day of Surgery
• Pain Management