The Vista Health surgery staff is fully trained and experienced to provide you with quality care during your stay with us. However, to assure a safe and successful surgery, we ask your cooperation.

1. You will receive a call someone on our staff before your surgery. The caller will ask for some needed information and will also ask if you have any questions.

2. Take time a few days before your scheduled procedure to make special arrangements for:

• A babysitter. If you have children, ask someone to sit with your children for 24 hours.
• A family member or friend to accompany you to the center. You will probably feel tired for up to 24 hours after your procedure. You may even feel some discomfort. Be certain you arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

3. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. Your doctor may have asked you to take or avoid certain medications before your surgery.

4. If you develop a cold, fever or experience a change in your physical condition before surgery, please notify your surgeon immediately.

Special Instructions Before Your Surgery

1. DO NOT eat or drink anything after midnight on the day before your surgery.

No breakfast – No morning coffee – No juice – No water – Nothing by mouth

2. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes. Gowns and slippers will be provided for you at the hospital.

3. Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.

4. Bring to the hospital any medications that you have been taking at home.

5. Be sure to carry your identification along with your insurance card and whatever cash, checks, money orders or credit cards you will need to pay your co-payment/deductible portion of your bill.

6. Unless you receive special instructions from your doctor, please plan to arrive at the hospital 2 hours before your scheduled surgery time.

If Your Child is Having Surgery

The best way to reassure your child is to answer his or her questions and explain ahead of time what will happen during surgery. Let your child know that you trust the surgery staff to take good care of him or her.

To help your child have a successful surgical experience, please follow these recommendations:

1. Do not allow your child to eat or drink anything after midnight. This includes water and fruit juices.

2. Encourage your child to bring along a favorite toy or blanket, so that it can be waiting for him or her after surgery.

3. Before surgery, your child will be visited by an anesthesiologist. Consent forms will have to be signed. Only a parent or legal guardian may consent to a child’s surgery.

4. On the ride home from the hospital, make sure that your child can be secured by a seat belt or ask someone to accompany you to look after your child. Do not attempt to drive while looking after a child who is recovering from outpatient surgery.

5. Watch your child carefully after surgery. If you notice any unusual signs or symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

After Surgery

Occasionally, some people may experience nausea or vomiting after receiving general anesthetic. If you feel nauseated for more than 24 hours following surgery or if you don’t begin to regain your strength by that time, contact your doctor.

About 24 – 48 hours after your surgery, you will be contacted by Vista surgery staff to ask how you are doing. If you have any questions, contact your doctor or the hospital at 847-360-4028.

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