Prepare for Your Surgery
Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of your surgery, the medical instructions you must follow and recommendations. If you have questions about your procedure or experience any change in your condition, such as a cold, cough or fever, call your surgeon prior to your surgery day.
A nurse from Scottsdale MRS will call you one week before your surgery. Please be expecting this call. She will ask about your medical history, anesthesia experiences, medications and supplements and answer any questions you have about the Surgicenter. A representative from the center will call one day before your surgery to confirm your arrival time. Please call the Surgicenter if you have not received our call by 2:00 PM the day before your surgery. Our business specialists will also call about your financial obligation, and insurance benefits that may apply.
Enlist the support of trusted adults. You must have a responsible adult drive you home after surgery. We cannot allow you to drive yourself home after discharge since you will still be affected by the anesthesia and pain medications. All minors must have one parent/legal guardian remain at the center for the duration of their surgery. You should also arrange to have a trusted adult stay with you for the first 24 hours to monitor your recovery at home.
How long will my surgery take? For many procedures, patients can expect to be at the Surgicenter for 3 to 4 hours from admission to discharge. This varies with each patient and type of procedure. Some surgeries require an overnight stay. Check with your surgeon about the specifics of your surgery.
At Home Before Surgery
- The night before surgery, do not eat or drink anything after midnight. This includes water, coffee, tea, gum, mints and candy. You must have an empty stomach. Liquids or food in your stomach can cause serious (even fatal) respiratory complications.
- Your doctor or the Surgicenter nurse will give you specific instructions about which medications and supplements you are to take and not to take, including insulin and blood pressure medications. If they instruct you to take your morning medications, take them with only a sip of water.
- To minimize the risk of infection, bathe or shower the night before or in the early morning. Remove dark purple or red nail polish.
Morning of Surgery
- Do not drink anything unless otherwise directed. If you have been instructed by your doctor or our nurse to take your morning medications, take them with only a sip of water.
- Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing that is easily removed and foldable, and flat shoes.
- Bring cases for eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures. Do not wear contact lenses.
- Do not wear jewelry, piercings or makeup.
- Leave valuables at home.
Package up and bring the following:
- List of all medications and supplements (or their containers)
- Picture ID that includes your street address