What to Expect in Pre-Operative (Prep) Area
A member of our clinical team will come to the waiting room and escort you to the pre-operative (prep) area to begin preparing you for surgery.
During this time, you can expect the following:
- Your weight will be recorded.
- You will have the opportunity to use the restroom. If you are a female of childbearing age, you will be asked to provide a urine sample for a pregnancy test before your procedure. If you choose not to have the test, you may decline it by signing a pregnancy test waiver.
- You will be escorted to your pre-operative bay and asked to remove your clothing and shoes. We will provide you with a surgical gown, a surgical cap, and non-slip socks to wear.
- Your vital signs will be obtained, including your blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate.
- If you have diabetes, we will check your blood sugar with a simple finger-stick test.
- If your procedure is expected to last one hour or longer, Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs) may be placed on your legs. These inflatable sleeves gently squeeze your legs to promote healthy blood flow and help reduce the risk of blood clots during and after surgery.
- Your nurse will review your medical history, medications, allergies, and pre-operative checklist to ensure you are safely prepared for surgery.
- You will review and sign any required consent forms and medical documentation.
- If ordered by your surgeon or anesthesiologist, you may receive medications before your procedure.
- An intravenous (IV) line will be started so fluids and medications can be administered during your procedure. If you have a fear of needles or have experienced difficulty with IV placement in the past, please let your nurse know so we can help make you as comfortable as possible.
- Your surgeon will visit you to review your procedure, answer any questions you may have, and mark the surgical site, if applicable. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss any last-minute questions or concerns about your surgery.
- Your anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will meet with you to review your anesthesia plan, discuss your medical history, explain what to expect, and answer any questions you may have. Please let them know about any previous reactions to anesthesia or other concerns.
- A member of your operating room team will speak with you about what to expect as you are taken into the operating room and help ensure you are comfortable before your procedure begins.
Please Expect Some Waiting Time
The amount of time you spend in the pre-operative area varies for each patient and may range from 30 minutes to 2 hours before your procedure begins. Wait times can be longer in some cases.
While we make every effort to keep your procedure on schedule, surgery schedules can change unexpectedly. Delays may occur due to emergencies, procedures that take longer than anticipated, changes in a patient’s medical condition, or additional care that another patient may require before, during, or after surgery.
Because every patient receives individualized care, it is difficult to predict exactly how long a procedure or recovery will take. Our priority is to provide each patient with the time, attention, and care they need without compromising safety.
We understand that delays can be frustrating and appreciate your patience and understanding. Our staff will keep you informed of any significant schedule changes and provide updates throughout your visit whenever possible.