Preparing for your Procedure

Preparing for Your Procedure Prior to:

Once your surgery has been scheduled through your surgeon’s office, you will receive a pre-surgery questionnaire through our patient portal MyChart. We ask that all patients complete this questionnaire at their earliest convenience. Prior to your surgery or procedure, a pre-operative nurse from TGH Surgery Center will call you to review your completed questionnaire, discuss your health status, your surgical procedure and begin the admission process in advance of your surgical date. The pre-operative nurse will verify all demographic information, health history, date of procedure, and procedure scheduled to be performed. Be prepared to discuss your health, medication, and infection history along with any relevant information related to your health and medical condition. If there is a change in your physical condition, like a cold, fever or illness, notify your surgeon and the surgery center before arriving.

  • You will be contacted the day before your surgery to confirm your exact arrival time and review your instructions.
  • If you do not receive this call by 4:00 p.m. please call (813) 821-8088 no later than 5:00 p.m.
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your surgery.
  • Also, you should arrange for a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours following surgery.

PLEASE: No food, drink or water after midnight prior to your surgery. You may brush your teeth while taking care not to swallow any water. Remember to follow your pre-operative instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result in cancellation of your surgery.

 

Preparing for Your Procedure Day of:

  • Bathe or shower the night before and the morning of your procedure with anti-bacterial soap. This will minimize the chance of infection. You may brush your teeth, but do not swallow any water.
  • Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Some patients wear or bring a gown or shirt that buttons in the front for easy access. During surgery you will wear a gown provided by the surgery center. Wear flat, comfortable shoes that can easily be slipped on after your procedure.
  • No jewelry of any type may be worn during surgical procedures, as it increases the risk for infection. You may also be required to remove make-up or nail polish, depending on the type of procedure being performed.
  • If you wear glasses or contacts, be sure to bring the protective cases with you as you will not be able to wear them during surgery.
  • We will provide a denture container if needed.
  • Bring completed insurance forms, your insurance cards and all relevant medical information requested. Please check with your insurance company for pre-admission requirements, such as second opinions, pre-admission certification, co-payment amount, and deductibles (see Insurance and Billing Link). This will help to expedite the admission process the day of your procedure.
  • If you are taking a blood thinner medication, notify your physician at least 2 weeks before your surgery, as you cannot take these types of medications prior to surgery. If you are taking any weight loss medications, these must be stopped 2 weeks prior to your procedure. If you are taking any medication, please notify your physician for instructions regarding these medications prior to your surgery. You must get instructions from your physician regarding any prescription medication(s) you will be taking the morning of the procedure. You may be instructed to take certain medications with just a sip of water. If you use an inhaler or insulin, please bring it with you.
  • Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before and following your procedure.
  • If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, please notify your physician. Anesthesia and certain medications for the procedure may be harmful during pregnancy.
  • If there is any change in your health between the last visit with your physician and the day of your scheduled surgery, please notify your physician immediately. Minor health changes, such as a cough, cold, or fever can impact your surgery.

Preparing for after your procedure:

  • After surgery or procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area. Your family will be able to visit with you as soon as possible.
  • Before discharge, a post-operative nurse will discuss your home care instructions and explain any medications, as well as provide a written copy of them for you to take home.
  • You will not be able to drive for 24 hours following surgery so a responsible adult will need to drive you home. You should not be alone for 24 hours following surgery. You may feel dizzy, or lightheaded for several hours after the procedure and may require assistance at home
  • Upon arriving home, it is extremely important to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding rest, medication, diet, activity, work and driving restrictions.
  • Do not sign any contracts or legal documents for 24 hours after surgery.
  • Do not drive a car for at least 24 hours after the surgery.
  • A TGH Surgery Center team member will contact you to check no your recovery progress after your procedure.
  • It is the patient’s responsibility to make follow up appointments for continued care with their surgeon.