Before Surgery

Before Your Procedure

A day before your procedure, a pre-op nurse will call you. During that call, the nurse will take a health history and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. You will also be told what time to come to the surgery center on the day of your procedure. Please be aware that this time may change, the pre-op nurse or another member of the staff may call you the day before or the day of and adjust your time.

Preparation For Your Procedure

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure, unless you have been given special instructions by your physician or the pre-op nurse – such as taking morning blood pressure meds with a sip of water. This is extremely important! You could have serious complications if your stomach is not empty during surgery. Please ask your doctor or call the Pre-Op nurse at Gulf Coast Outpatient Surgery Center if you have any questions about eating and drinking before your procedure.

Medications

If you take medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, weight loss, or any blood thinners, please contact your surgeon or call us at 228.594.2900 to speak with the Pre-op Nurse regarding instructions about your medications prior to surgery. You may need to stop taking these 1-2 weeks before your surgery.

Changes in Your Health

If you develop any changes in your health between your visit to your physician and the day of your procedure, notify your physician, and please call the center if you are not going to be able to have your procedure. Please report even minor changes such as an elevated temperature, a cough, or a cold. If you suspect you are pregnant, please notify your physician.

Driving and Transportation

For your own safety and protection, you will not be allowed to drive a motor vehicle following your procedure. Please make arrangements to have someone 18 years or older bring you and escort you home from the surgery center. Parents may want to have an additional adult to assist in accompanying a child home.

What if my Child has Surgery?

Children are scheduled as early in the day as possible. If your child is having surgery, please be sure that he or she does not eat or drink anything after midnight. If your child is an infant our anesthesiologist may have additional instructions for you. Children may have parents stay the night if surgery is such that your doctor wants to keep your child 23 hours. Please bring any medication that is normally taken at home with you. You may also bring a favorite blanket or toy for your child.

Some Helpful Hints

  • Be sure to arrange your ride home before you get to the center. The person driving you home should be over 18 years old or accompanied by someone over 18 years old. You will not be permitted to drive yourself home after your procedure if you have received any sedation or pain medication.
  • If your doctor has given you a prescription, have it filled before your procedure if possible. When you return home, you will have the medication available when you need it.
  • It is not unusual to forget small details so write down any questions you may have and bring them with you. We will be happy to provide you with the appropriate information.
  • Leave all jewelry and valuables at home. We cannot be responsible for the safe storage of these items at the surgery center.
  • If you wear eyeglasses, contacts, or dentures, bring an appropriate storage case.
    Please remove any body piercing jewelry. If your tongue is pierced, remember to remove the stud. In case of an emergency. the stud can be an obstruction placing lifesaving breathing instruments.
  • It is a good idea to have someone stay with you for 12 hours after you return home. Rest and pamper yourself during this time.