Preparing for Surgery

Preparing for Surgery, Procedures, and Anesthesia

Kennedy-White Surgery Center has provided patient information on “Preparing for Surgery, Procedures, and Anesthesia” for a safe and comfortable stay. We are pleased that you and your physician have selected Kennedy-White Surgery Center for your surgical and procedural services.

Your health, safety, and comfort will be our primary concerns during your stay. Our highly skilled team of physicians, nurses and other health professionals is committed to making you and your family feel welcome and helping you reach maximum health and wellness.

Our physician anesthesiologists evaluate, monitor, and supervise every patient’s anesthesia care throughout each procedure and continue to make sure patients are comfortable and safe during the immediate recovery period. They have the specific medical education to make critical decisions should an emergency arise or if a routine procedure becomes complicated.

The following information about resources and services is available to patients and visitors at Kennedy-White Surgery Center. While we hope they help prepare you for a safe and comfortable stay, if you have any specific concerns or special needs, please contact us at 941-893-4900.

From your physician

Your physician’s office will schedule your procedure and may instruct you to have certain tests performed several days prior to your procedure. You will register for your surgery on the day of your procedure. Please notify your physician if you or your child develop a fever, rash, upper respiratory tract infection, or diarrhea before surgery.

Follow your dietary instructions

When you prepare for surgery, be sure to follow the instructions you’ve received about when to stop eating and drinking. For more detailed information, please contact our adult or pediatric medical anesthesia director.

General Fasting Guidelines

• Protein and Fat: 8-10 hours prior to arrival
• Carbohydrates and Milk: 6-8 hours prior to arrival
• Clear Liquids: 2 hours prior to arrival, please refrain from alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to surgery

Please stop smoking

If you smoke and you’re preparing for surgery, we recommend that you take immediate steps to stop smoking at once and remain smoke-free following your procedure. Quitting 4–6 weeks before your operation and staying smoke-free 4 weeks after it can decrease your chance of complications, including wound infections and pneumonia. The sooner you stop smoking, the better your chances of a smooth recovery. Quitting permanently can add years to your life. Read more about patient resources to quit smoking.

Bring your medical information with you

If you take more than one or two medications, please bring a complete list of medications you take with you on the day of surgery, including any herbal or “natural” medications. If you have a complicated medical history, it may be helpful to bring a written summary of your major health issues, any operations you have had, and any problems you may have had with anesthesia. If you have asthma or emphysema, bring inhalers with you.

Please contact your physician for guidance on taking medications prior to surgery for asthma, blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac reasons or using blood thinners, including over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or herbal supplements.

What to bring with you on the day of your surgery

• Plan to arrive at the hospital 1-2 hours prior to your surgery unless otherwise specified.
• Bring your insurance card and a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license. Minors do not need ID, but the primary insured party does need theirs.
• Bring your form of payment if required.
• Bring a copy of your consent forms and an “Advanced Directive” if you have one. Your signature will be required in accordance with your particular procedure.
• Limit the number of people who accompany you to the center. We suggest that adult patients be accompanied by only one person.
• We do welcome both parents of pediatric patients. Minors cannot be left unaccompanied at the surgery center or hospital; a parent or legal guardian must remain in the waiting area at all times. Children having surgery may bring a special toy. If your child does not drink from a cup, please bring a bottle or “sippy” cup for postoperative hydration.

The morning of surgery

• You may brush your teeth the morning of your surgery, but do not swallow water.
• Do not wear makeup, hairpins, watches, removable jewelry, or body piercings. If you wear a wig or hairpieces, please remove.
• Please leave all valuables, including money, watches, jewelry, and credit cards at home. If you have any tight rings, it is a good idea to have them removed before you come to the hospital.
• You may wear dentures and eyeglasses until you are prepared for surgery.
• If you must wear contact lenses, please bring your storage case for use during surgery.
• You may be asked to remove dentures and other non-permanent items at the center.
• You may be asked to remove undergarments before surgery. During surgery, you will wear a patient gown provided by the center. It opens and ties in the back.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can accommodate a cast or will fit easily over any bandage or surgical dressing.

Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home

Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you to the center, receive discharge instructions, drive you home, and stay with you for the first night following surgery. For your safety, you will not be allowed to leave the facility alone. Before you leave, a nurse will discuss your care while you recuperate at home.