Preparing for Surgery

You just found out you need surgery. This happens to thousands of people every day. Whether it's a minor procedure such as endoscopy or a major operation such as heart surgery, preparing for surgery can be a confusing or stressful time in anyone's life. The most important thing you can do is follow your physician's instructions. Placing the proper attention to your physician's pre-procedure instructions is your responsibility in the surgery process.

Another important consideration in preparing for surgery is to make sure you have completed all your pre-op testing. Many times physicians order lab and radiology studies to be completed prior to surgery. Results need to be reported to the hospital or ambulatory surgery center so be sure to complete as directed by your care provider so they will have time to integrate with their care plans in a timely manner.

Also, the pre-op department of the hospital or ambulatory surgery center may contact you to let you know your scheduled surgery time and do the pre-op intake. The pre-op inatke process typically includes asking for your medical history, insurance coverage, patient advocate or advanced directive instructions. They may also provide you with additional pre-procedure steps to you for your upcoming surgery. Be sure to ask questions and take notes througout the discussion.

And if you have any questions after these discussions, be sure to contact - the office staff and/or pre-op, both are eager to help you find the answers to assist in your pre- surgical preparations.