FAQ

Below are a list of questions with general information about your most common admission, stay and post-op questions. If you have any questions you don't see answers to, please contact us.

Preparing for Surgery

Can I eat or drink before surgery?

No. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery, unless your doctor instructs otherwise. This includes any type of food, gum, liquids, water, chewing tobacco, etc. Food or other substances in your stomach can cause serious complications with anesthesia. If you eat or drink after midnight before admission, your surgery could be cancelled.

Can I take my regular medications before surgery?

If you take medication on a regular basis for any conditions, discuss with your doctor if you should take it the day of surgery.

Why do I need to be at the hospital two hours before my surgery?

To ensure that we are fully prepared for your stay, we like to be thorough in our admissions process. Paperwork must be completed, and lab work may be required prior to surgery. Pre-op nurses conduct a patient assessment, and your physician and/or anesthesiologist will visit with you prior to your procedure.

What should I bring with me?

You can bring personal clothing and items to make your stay more comfortable, such as pajamas, gowns, a robe, slippers, toothbrush, toothpaste, and other toiletries.

You will be asked to bring any medications you are currently taking from home, including any over the counter or herbal medications, for identification purposes. It is very important that we know each medication you are currently taking, the dosage, and how often you take the medication.

During Your Stay

How long will my surgery last?

The length of each surgery varies. This may be discussed with your physician and timeframe may be approximated.

How long will I be in the hospital?

The length of stay varies with each patient. For most surgeries you will be in the hospital overnight and will be discharged the following morning. With more extensive surgeries, you may be in the hospital 3-4 days. Your physician can give you an approximate time frame for your hospitalization.

Can my family stay with me overnight?

Yes, we do have have sleeper sofas in the patient rooms, however, we do not have any bathing facilities for families staying at the hospital. Bathrooms are for patient use only. We do not allow anyone under the age of 16 to stay in the patient rooms overnight and we can accommodate only one guest per patient. Special exceptions may be made by notifying us.

What time will I be able to leave?

As soon as your doctor writes the discharge order. Check-out time at the hospital is 12:00pm. We ask that you make pre-arrangements to have your family or a responsible adult pick you up and drive you home. Some insurance companies calculate hospital time by the minute and hour, so if you are dismissed and stay longer waiting for a ride, your insurance company may not pay for the extra hospital time.

Will I need blood for my surgery?

Probably not, but if you do, your doctor will let you know in advance and offer self donation to you if possible. Your doctor will instruct you on donating your own blood.

When will I be up and walking following back surgery?

You will be up and walking the evening of surgery or the following morning if you had a late surgery.

After You Go Home

Is it normal to run a fever following surgery?

It is common to run a low grade temperature (99 -100.4) for a week or two following any surgery. If your temperature goes over 101 and stays there after you take your pain medication or Tylenol, notify your doctor.

When should I come back to see my doctor following surgery?

You should call your doctor's office once you get home to arrange a 3-4 week post-op appointment to see your doctor.

How do I get a refill on my pain medications?

If you need a refill on your medication you should contact your doctor's office Monday through Friday before 3:00 p.m. Have the name of your medication, pharmacy phone number, and your date of birth ready before you call. You may be asked to leave your information on a recorder.

How long will I need pain medication after surgery?

For most surgeries, you will need some medication for the first 2-3 weeks. More extensive surgeries may require discussing medication usage with your doctor.

Is it normal to suffer from constipation?

It is not unusual to suffer from constipation following surgery. Pain medication and decreased activity slow the bowel motility. If you are constipated you may try whatever normally works for you. You may try over-the-counter laxatives or enemas. You should get relief within 24-48 hours. If you do not, notify your doctor.

Is it normal to have numbness following surgery?

Numbness will be the last symptom to go away. It may take several weeks to several months for it to subside.

If you still have questions about your stay, please call the hospital at 405-749-2745 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday and we will be happy to assist you. If you have medical questions about your condition, please contact your doctor's office.

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