The staff of the Dreyer Ambulatory Surgery Center offers these suggestions if you are scheduled for surgery.

1. Plan for unforeseen changes in surgery time. Although we try to maintain a set surgery schedule, there are times when a surgery case may take longer than expected. This may result in your being in the surgery center longer than originally planned. It is best to "free up" your entire day to allow for any unforeseen time changes.

2. Arrange for an adult to stay with you at the surgery center. It is very important that you have someone with you who can stay at the surgery center during your procedure. The medications you receive can make you sleepy and forgetful. For this reason, the surgeon will want to discuss your surgery and post-operative care with a friend or family member. Additionally, an adult will be needed to drive you home and stay with you overnight.

3. Make arrangements for young children to stay with a babysitter or family member. Adequate rest is essential for a healthy recovery. If possible, make arrangements for daycare. If it is absolutely necessary to bring your children with you, please know that children under the age of 10 will not be able to visit you in the recovery area. They will be asked to stay in the waiting area and must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

4. Remember to follow pre-operative dietary restrictions. An empty stomach is imperative to prevent nausea or vomiting during and after your procedure. If you are instructed to "not eat or drink anything" after a certain time frame, you need to follow these instructions. Even though that cup of coffee seems harmless, it may lead to a significant delay or even a cancellation of your surgery.

5. Things to bring with you:

• a list of your current medications (including "over the counter" and herbal medications)
• your driver's license and current insurance card
• important legal documents such as Living Will, Power of Attorney, Guardianship papers
• any assistive device you are currently using (crutches, walker, hearing aid, etc.)
• if you are a cataract patient, please bring your eye pack with you

6. Things to leave at home: jewelry, purse, wallet, money, and other valuable items.

7. Limit visitors while you are at the surgery center. The time spent at the surgery center is very brief and will be limited to preparing you for surgery and assisting you to recover afterwards. Surgery center rooms are very small, which requires us to limit the number of visitors allowed in at one time. It is best to have friends and family wait until you return home to visit.

8. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Because you will be asked to "fast" before your procedure, your body will be in a naturally dehydrated state. Alcohol will add to this dehydration making you more prone to problems with blood pressure during and after your procedure. You should avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours prior to your surgery.

9. Wear loose comfortable clothes. Clothes that are easy to put on and take off are best. Sweat pants, shirts with buttons, and slip-on shoes are wise choices. Avoid tight-fitting clothing such as blue jeans and turtlenecks.

10. Ask questions and insist on answers. Surgery can be a stressful time for anyone. If you have any questions or are unsure about any information given to you, be sure to ask for clarification. A patient can never ask too many questions. If there is something on your mind, let us know. We always want you to feel safe and confident in the care you are receiving.