General Patient Instruction Sheet

These guidelines are general and may not be appropriate for every procedure or surgery. Please consult your physician or care staff for specific instructions.

A hospital nurse will call you to discuss your medical history. If you do not receive a call at least three days prior to your surgery, please call 970-385-2356.

The day before your surgery

Please call 970-385-2356 between 7a.m. – 4 p.m. to verify your arrival time and receive instructions.

1. Do not eat, drink or smoke 12 hours prior to your surgery unless otherwise instructed — this includes water, coffee, tea, gum, and mints. Eating and drinking prior to your surgery may cause your procedure to be cancelled or delayed.

2. Wear loose, casual clothing that will allow you to dress easily after your procedure.

3. Make sure to clarify with the pre-op nurse what medications you should take prior to your surgery.

4. Do not wear hairpins, rollers, or barrettes.

5. Do not wear make-up, nail polish, or contact lenses. These products may interfere with the surgical procedure.

6. Do not wear jewelry, including body piercings.

7. Please do not bring valuables to the hospital. Animas Surgical Hospital cannot be responsible for protecting your valuable property.

8. You will sign a consent form prior to your procedure. A parent or guardian must sign for a minor. Your surgeon will review the consent form with you. Do not sign the consent form until all of your questions are answered.

9. If you plan on going home the day of your surgery, you must have a driver and someone to help you with your postoperative care. You may feel slightly disoriented for several hours after your procedure. Therefore, you should not drive, sign any important documents, or make any significant decisions until the residual effects of the anesthesia have subsided.

10. If you have any questions, please contact our pre-op department 970-385-2356

Additional Information

Studies show that receiving anesthesia during the first trimester of pregnancy may be harmful. Therefore, patients should notify their doctors if any possibility of pregnancy exists.

Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding diet, recovery, ambulation, and medications when you get home. Our nursing staff will give you written instructions. If you lose your instructions or have questions, please call the nurses at 970-385-2356.

To further ensure a speedy and safe recovery, do not consume alcoholic beverages 12 hours before and 48 hours after your surgery.