Preparing for Surgery at UPMC Hamot Surgery Center

Pre-admission Testing

Check with your doctor prior to your surgical date about whether you will need any additional testing. If testing is needed, your referring doctor will be able to help you make arrangements at a convenient testing site.

The Night Before Surgery

UPMC Hamot Surgery Center suggests observing the following recommendations leading up to your surgery:

• Try to relax with a quiet evening
• After midnight, do not eat any solid food, and limit your fluid intake
• You may have a total of three ounces of clear liquids, such as water or apple juice until three hours before your surgery
• Refrain from smoking
• Remove all makeup, nail polish, and jewelry prior to your arrival
• Take medications only as directed during your pre-surgery phone call

It is important to follow the instructions given to you by your surgeon or family doctor regarding taking any products that contain aspirin or blood thinners prior to your procedure.

The Day of Surgery

On the day of your surgery, please try to:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing
• If you wear contacts or glasses, remember to bring your lens case
• Bring any reports or printed materials given to you by the doctor or laboratory staff
• If you are currently taking any insulin, please bring it in the original bottle.
• Call your surgeon if you have a fever, cold, or sore throat prior to surgery
• Remember to bring your driver’s license and any health insurance cards
• Leave all valuables at home

UPMC Hamot Surgery Center is not responsible for lost valuables.

When You Arrive

We will ask you for some additional insurance information and to sign consent forms. The anesthesiologist will speak with you about the anesthesia you will receive. One family member may accompany you as you wait in our recovery area and when you arrive in stage II recovery.

Going Home

Our staff will go over instructions for you to follow once you are home. If you have received any anesthesia, other than local anesthesia, we require that you have a responsible adult listen to your medical instructions and drive you home.

Arrange for someone to be with you at home throughout the night. We will call you the day after your surgery to check on your progress and ask about your stay.

If you have any questions or problems after surgery, call your doctor or the UPMC Hamot Surgery Center.