What do I expect during the few hours before my surgery?
On the day of surgery, you may be asked to arrive several hours before your procedure is scheduled to begin. This allows the staff to complete any tests that cannot be performed until the day of surgery. You will be taken into an area where you will be asked to remove all of your clothing and jewelry and you will be given a hospital gown.
This is sometimes called the Pre-Operative Holding Area. The staff will help secure your belongings, or have you give them to your family for safekeeping.
You may then sit in a recliner or wait on a stretcher. A nurse may have you sign any necessary paperwork.He or she will take vital signs, do a nursing assessment,
and review your medications and the time you took them as well as answer any questions you may have. An Intravenous (I.V.) line will be placed in a vein in your hand or arm.
The purpose of the I.V. is to provide fluid and medications during the operation. You must remove all hairpins, dentures, contact lens, glasses and bridgework, unless the nursing staff tells you that you can keep these items.
Will I be able to talk to my anesthesiologist before surgery?
Yes. You will meet your anesthesia provider, and other members of the team, before you go into the operating room.
The anesthesia provider will examine you, review your medical and anesthesia history and the results of any tests you may have had done. The anesthesiologist will explain to you the type of anesthesia you will get,
and will answer any further questions you may have.Depending on your health,the type of surgery and your personal wishes,the anesthesia provider and your surgeon will determine the type of anesthetic that is best for you.
