Preparing for Your Outpatient Surgery
Friday, July 1st, 2022
Preparing for Your Outpatient Surgery
Outpatient surgery, also referred to as same-day or ambulatory surgery, is an excellent alternative for qualifying patients.
Not only do patients have the convenience of recovering in their own homes, but outpatient procedures are less costly than inpatient surgeries. The team at Premier Surgical Surgery Center in Knoxville offers a few tips to help you prepare for your outpatient surgery
Arrange for Transportation
Even though you’re going home the day of your procedure, you won’t be able to drive yourself home due to the medications used during your surgery. While these medications keep you comfortable during and after your procedure, they’ll also affect your ability to drive. Recruit a loved one to drive you home.
Ideally, a support person should go to the surgery center with you. Your surgeon will likely have some post-surgical instructions, and stress and surgical medications may make it difficult for you to remember everything they say. Your support person can act as an extra set of ears to make sure you don’t miss any important guidelines.
Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions from Your Surgeon
Your doctor and surgical team will provide you with pre-surgery instructions designed to lower your risk of infection or experiencing complications.
If your surgeon wants you to stop taking certain medications before your procedure, make sure to follow their timeline. You should also adhere to instructions regarding when to stop eating or drinking.
To lower the risk of infection, you may need to wash your surgical site with an antibacterial soap. On the day of your procedure, don’t use any skincare products.
Avoid shaving the area, and stop using tobacco and alcohol at least 24 hours before your surgery.
Know What Items to Leave at Home
Try to bring as few items with you as possible to minimize the risk of an item being misplaced. Your surgery center staff will give you a bag to put clothing, shoes, and any personal items (like glasses or contact lenses) in. Avoid bringing jewelry and accessories.
Prepare Your Recovery Spot
Make sure that your recovery area is ready for you when you get home. Change your sheets the day of your surgery to lower your risk of infection.
Gather any pillows or recovery devices and place them near your recovery spot. Have a friend or family member plan to come over to lend a hand with any tasks that you might need help with.
Premier Surgical Surgery Center is a state-of-the art outpatient facility that is conveniently located on Papermill Drive just off Interstate 40. We offer a variety of same-day procedures including gallbladder removal and hernia repair. Premier Surgical Surgery Center is in-network with multiple insurance plans. We also offer self-pay packages for patients with a high deductible or no insurance.
To learn more about Premier Surgical Surgery Center, please call our office at (865) 306-5868 or visit our website.