Surgery Safety Steps:
- Information on the consent form will be explained to you before you sign it. Be sure you have all your questions answered so you fully understand what will happen and what to expect.
- We will put an identification band on your arm. Staff will confirm your identity for surgery by asking you (or your family) to say your name and birthday (or other identifying information).
- We will confirm type of procedure or location on your body. If you are unable to speak and are alone staff will work together to confirm your identity clearly.
- If your procedure involves a question of left vs. right, or has multiple choice of sites (like fingers and toes), the actual marked site will be verified on your body by the doctor or other member of the surgical team.
- Just before the procedure begins, everyone in the room will take a short “time out” and check that they are doing the right procedure on the right patient in the right place. This may happen after you are asleep.
- We prevent infections by careful hand washing and (if appropriate) giving antibiotics.
- All family and visitors will be asked to wait in the lobby.
- The nurse will take your temperature, blood pressure, pulse and review your
health and answer your questions. - Your anesthesiologist will review your health and blood tests, tell you what will happen and answer your questions.
- Please let us know if you need anything.
Before you leave: Please be sure you understand all the instructions about medicine, diet and rest. You may feel sleepy and dizzy. You should plan to go home and stay at home for the rest of the day. For your own safety, it is important that you do not drive a vehicle, operate machinery, drink alcohol, or make any important decisions for at least 24 hours after discharge. Ask any question or tell us of any concerns.
At Home: You should plan to have a responsible adult stay with you the night after surgery. Call if you have any questions when you get home and dial 911 if there is a medical emergency.