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800 Howard Ave.
Altoona, PA 16601
814-889-7700
At UPMC Altoona, we understand your concern when you or a loved one needs surgery. Unfamiliar faces and surroundings can contribute to your anxiety. That's why we want to help you get acquainted with our facility and staff. Let's take a quick tour so you know what to expect.
Learn more about how to prepare for your hospital stay or same-day surgery.
Upon entering our lobby, you'll notice that we've gone to great lengths to make you feel at home. You'll be greeted by our receptionist at the front desk and then proceed to the private registration area.
Registration is quick and easy. Once you're finished, you and your family or guest can relax in our waiting area. This homey area features comfy chairs, televisions and a playroom for children.
As surgery time draws near, a nurse will call you and your family back to the preoperative area. There, you'll meet the admitting nurse and various members of the anesthesia team for an admission process and assessment. And while you're being prepared for surgery, our staff in the operating room is preparing for your procedure as well.
When it's time for surgery, a circulating nurse and a nurse anesthetist dressed in scrubs and wearing caps will meet you. They will escort you to the operating room while your family or guest returns to the waiting area.
This is one scene you won't see, but you can be assured that your surgical procedure will be performed by exceptional health care professionals using high-tech equipment and procedures.
The Surgery Center's six state-of-the-art operating rooms are equipped with the most current medical technologies to provide our surgeons with all the tools needed to make your procedure faster, less invasive and more comfortable.
View more information about what to expect during your stay.
After surgery, you'll be moved to a postoperative room to meet your family or guest. Once you're awake, able to drink something, and have been checked for pain control, a nurse will help you get ready to go home.
You'll be given specific instructions on how to take care of yourself at home and what medications to take (if any). If you've come with another family member or friend and you want them to help you, make sure they hear the instructions too. And feel free to ask the staff if you are unsure about anything.
Learn more about what happens after your hospital stay.
The day after surgery, one of our staff members will call to double-check on your progress. It's important to let us know if you're experiencing any problems or complications.
A few weeks after your procedure, you may receive a call asking you to rate your satisfaction with your Surgery Center visit. As our valued patient, we want you to be able to rate every aspect of your experience with us as excellent — your safety, clinical care, room environment, diagnostic testing and operative procedures. Your opinion counts, and knowing what you think helps us continue to provide the quality care you deserve.
