The Day of Surgery

On the day of surgery, we ask that you:

Bring the completed medication reconciliation form or your own complete list of all current medications (including vitamins & herbals) the dosage and frequency.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and simple shoes to make getting dressed after your surgery easy. Do not wear jewelry.
Bring your insurance cards and driver’s license for the admitting process.

There is a snack area with a vending machine and coffee or tea available to those waiting for patients. Escorts are asked to remain in the building while the patient is in surgery. If you must step out, please tell the receptionist.

You will be asked to remove dentures and contacts when getting ready for surgery, so please bring your cases with you.

Your anesthesiologist, surgeon, and operating room nurse will visit you in pre-op. They will re-verify information and answer any questions you may have. You will be in pre-op for about an hour. After your surgery, you will be taken directly to the recovery room where you will again be monitored by nurses.

Surgical Steps

The Recovery Room

You will be limited to one visitor, per adult and two visitors, per child.

Your escort will be allowed in the Recovery Room with you when it is appropriate. You will be offered crackers and a light beverage. The length of time you will be in the Recovery Room is totally dependent on the kind of procedure you have had, the type of anesthesia you had, your pain level, and your ability to tolerate fluids.

Once you are awake and alert, the nurse will review with you and your care-giver the instructions written by your physician which you are to follow at home. You will be given a copy of your discharge instructions to take home with you.

Please note: Everyone reacts to surgery differently. In some cases, the patient may need to be admitted to the hospital following the surgery for specific medical reasons.

If the need arises, be assured that this decision will be made in conjunction with anesthesia personnel and your surgeon. You would be admitted to Wake Medical Center.