Before Your Surgery at UPMC Mercy

The preadmission testing area evaluates, assesses, and educates patients for a safe and successful experience at UPMC Mercy.

During the preadmission process, a team of nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, anesthesiologists and other health care providers work together to gather information about your medical and surgical history before your surgery.

Our center is located in Room 1106, directly off the bridge level of the parking garage. Our phone number is 412-232-8255.

Laboratory services are available from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays. Physicals are available from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday  through Friday. To schedule an appointment for a physical, call 412-232-7540.

Your preadmission visit

Bring the following to your preadmission visit:

  • Your medical and surgical history
  • List of all prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • List of all allergies
  • Names and telephone numbers of your current primary care provider and other medical specialists involved in your health care

During your visit you will:

  • Be examined by a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
  • Be asked questions about your health.
  • Complete any tests required by your doctor.

These tests may vary based on your health and type of surgery but may include vital signs, blood tests, urine tests, EKGs, and chest x-rays.

A nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or an anesthesiologist will review your medical records and discuss any recommendations for further testing, if needed.

This appointment may take up to two hours. We will validate your parking during your visit.

Before surgery

A nurse will complete a telephone assessment 24 to 72 hours before surgery and will provide you with information needed before your surgery. Patients should provide an alternative phone number for contact, and allow 20 minutes for the assessment. Have your list of medications and your medical history ready to discuss with the nurse. Dietary instructions will be provided during this call. Patients also will be instructed on what medications to take the day of surgery.

Day of surgery

  • If you have been instructed to take a medication, do so with a small sip of water.
  • If you have sleep apnea, bring your CPAP machine with you.
  • Wear loose comfortable clothing; button-down shirts are best.
  • If you wear dentures or a hearing aid, bring storage cases for them.
  • All body piercings must be removed.
  • Do not wear nail polish or makeup.
  • Do not wear hair spray, scented body lotion, or perfume.
  • No chewing gum or candy the day of surgery.
  • No alcoholic beverages the night before surgery.
  • All valuables and jewelry — including watches, wedding rings, necklaces, and earrings — should be left at home.
  • You must be accompanied by a responsible person over the age of 18 who will be able to drive you home, and a responsible adult should be available to assist at home for the first 24 hours after surgery.

Contact your surgeon’s office with any additional questions about your surgery.

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