Outpatient Surgery Preparation
Preparing for Surgery
Once you have decided to have surgery, there are steps you can take to make sure everything goes smoothly. Knowing what to expect and being prepared helps to make the process easier for everyone involved.
Insurance
Prior to surgery, an insurance verification specialist from Griffin Hospital will contact you to confirm your personal information and verify your insurance coverage. At that time you will be advised of any out-of-pocket expenses, such as your co-pay or deductible and payment instructions. Co-pays and deductibles must be paid prior to your surgical procedure.
Pre-Admission Interview
After scheduling your surgery, a scheduling representative will call you to set up your pre-admission interview and any required pre-operative testing. If we have not reached you within three days of your scheduled procedure, please call Same-Day Surgery at (203) 732-7292 between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to schedule your pre-admission interview.
Your pre-admission interview will take place with a registered nurse who will review your health history and explain what to expect the day of your surgery. Your pre-admission interview may take place in-person or over the phone. Prior to your interview you should prepare a list of all prescriptions and medications you are using and any allergies or sensitivities you may have. You may use our easy Allergy & Medication form to prepare your list.
Transportation
Anesthesia used during surgery may make you feel disoriented, groggy, and/or confused. By law, patients under-going anesthesia or intravenous sedation must have an escort to provide transportation after surgery. We suggest making arrangements with a friend or family member to escort you the day of your surgery. While waiting, your escort is invited to relax in our lounge, visit our Community Health Resource Center, or have a meal or snack in our dining room. Pagers are available upon request. If your escort chooses to leave the hospital during your procedure, we require that they leave a phone number where they can easily be reached when you are ready to be discharged.
Children
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who must remain in the hospital until discharge.
It may be helpful to bring your child’s favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or toy to lessen anxiety.
Important Instructions
Please follow these instructions to avoid unnecessary delays or cancellation of your surgery:
The Day Before Surgery
- Call (203) 765-7380 after 3:00 PM for your appointment time.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery, including candy or gum.
- Follow preparation instructions provided by your surgeon and nurse
- Do not smoke. Smoking can irritate your throat causing excessive coughing and discomfort.
The Day of Surgery
- Do not smoke. Smoking can irritate your throat causing excessive coughing and discomfort.
- Do not eat or drink.
- You may brush your teeth as usual.
- Bathe with an antibacterial soap or pre-op scrub, if instructed.
- Take your morning medications, as instructed by your nurse or anesthesiologist, with only a teaspoon of water.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital.
- Bring a storage case for glasses or contacts.
- Do not wear make-up.
- Nail polish may need to be removed; your nurse can tell you if it is necessary for your procedure.
- Remove all jewelry, including body piercing jewelry.
- Leave all money, jewelry, and valuables home.
Admissions
If you expect to stay with us overnight, you may bring any personal items that will make your stay comfortable such as:
- Toiletries
- Reading Material
- Robe & Slippers