Information for Patients: Preparing for Anesthesia and Surgery
Outpatient Surgery
When surgery is over you’ll be observed for a period of time. The type of anesthesia given and your procedure will largely determine your postoperative course. Your nurse will work with you to treat any physical concerns and to plan your discharge to home. Very few people need to stay overnight when outpatient surgery is planned. Focus on returning home as you had planned.
Your activity level will be steadily increased and you’ll be offered something to drink. You may be required to urinate before discharge for some surgical procedures or with a spinal anesthesia, or you may be discharged with instructions on what to do if you can’t urinate within a given time range.
You’ll be given take-home printed instructions for self-care. Instructions should include wound care, any activity restrictions, diet, a follow-up appointment plan, any signs to watch for and to report, and an emergency contact number for your doctor. Use of medication for pain control should be addressed and discussed with you.
If you will need medication you should get either the actual medication or a prescription to be filled at your pharmacy. Your nurse or pharmacist should discuss potential side effects or special dose instructions of all prescribed medications with you. Always follow the dosing instructions to prevent complications from occurring and report any unusual reactions if they should happen. If you have stopped any medications in preparation for surgery, ask your nurse or physician about resuming any medications.
You’ll need to have a driver on the day of surgery for the trip home and should not stay alone after surgery. Transportation and personal arrangements must be made in advance, and driver’s name with contact number or location should be given to the admitting nurse for later use.
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