Any type of surgery no matter how small, can be a scary and unsettling experience. Here are a few things to remember.
Before your surgery: Once you have checked in at the registration desk, you are taken to the day surgery area and may need to fill in some forms that include information about insurance, emergency contacts and so on. You may also need to read and sign a written request and consent for the surgery if this has not been completed previously. Then you will change into a hospital gown. You will be checked by a nurse which may include recording your pulse, blood pressure, weight and temperature. If you have been ill or sick or have had a fever, please confirm with your physician BEFORE your surgery date in case your procedure needs to be rescheduled.
After your surgery: After your operation is over, you are taken to the recovery room. This is a special area, close to the operating theatre and staffed by nurses trained to look after patients who are waking up following an anaesthetic. Because of the drugs you have been given, you may remember little of this time. THIS IS NORMAL. If you were given a local anaesthetic for a small procedure, you are usually discharged shortly after your surgery. For longer procedures your recovery might take a bit more time. It is required that you have a friend or relative drive you home. You will not be permitted to leave on your own.
Once you're at home: If you have been given pain relievers or general anaesthesia, you may feel drowsy even after you leave. This is because a small amount of the anaesthetic may still remain in your body which can slow your reaction time and affect your judgement for the next 24 hours. During this time, you should not drive a car, operate potentially dangerous machinery, drink alcohol, sign any important documents or care for young children without other adult help.
If you have any concerns, contact your doctor or surgeon.
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