Follow this quick guide for your surgery

GVSC Patient Guide

It is very important to carefully prepare for your surgery. This is for you safety to ensure the best possible surgical results. At Grand Valley Surgical Center, we want you to feel calm and comfortable before your surgery.

We understand that you may have some questions and anxiety about your surgery. That is normal. It is our job to put your mind at ease, prepare you for your surgery, and help you with recovery. We will be there every step of the way.

Laboratory Test 
Your physician will inform you of any tests or examinations that may be required and arrange to have them done before your surgery.

Medications 
Talk to your doctor about any daily medications you are currently taking, especially for heart, diabetes or blood pressure. Be sure to mention any over-the-counter drugs that you take including aspirin, Advil, Motrin, vitamins an supplements, or herbs. Medications that will need to be stopped 7 days prior to surgery include: weight loss medications, GLP-1 agonists, vitamins and herbals, cannabinoids, anorectics and NSAIDS.

Prepare a list of all the medications you take and the dosages. Bring that list or the medication containers with you on the day of surgery.

The Night Before Surgery
DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING (including water, gum, mints) AFTER MIDNIGHT the night before your surgery unless you have been otherwise instructed by your physician.  Undigested food in the stomach can cause complications, and your surgery is likely to be cancelled if you fail to follow this instruction.

Please limit the use of alcohol and tobacco for 24 hours prior to your surgery and refrain from smoking after midnight.

• Please bathe or shower the morning of your appointment to minimize the risk of infection. Do not apply lotions, powders or oils.

• Teeth may be brushed, but DO NOT swallow water.

• Leave valuables at home. Wear little or no jewelry, piercings, finger nail polish, or make-up

• If you wear contact lenses, glasses, or dentures, you may be requested to remove them for your surgery. Please bring cases so they can be safely stored.

• Wear low-heeled shoes and loose, comfortable clothing that can be folded for storage under your stretcher.

• Please leave children not having surgery at home.

• You may want to bring a pillow for your comfort during your ride home.

• Check in at the reception desk, where registration information will be confirmed and completed.

• If you have not prepaid, bring payment for your coinsurance or deductible that is due prior to your surgery. Bring money in case you need a prescription filled after surgery. Your support person is unable to leave the facility even to fill your prescription at an outside pharmacy.

• Bring any forms your physician has given you regarding this visit, along with your personal identification.

• Please plan to arrive promptly at the time given to you by our surgery scheduling personnel.

After you have registered at the reception desk, a nurse will spend time with you to answer any questions you might have and to help with preparations for surgery. You will be asked to put on a special gown, cap, and slippers.

If you are scheduled for anesthesia, an Anesthesiologist will examine you and ask important questions regarding your health and medical history.

Transportation
For your safety and protection, you will not be allowed to drive a motor vehicle following surgery. If your surgery involves general anesthetic or other type of sedation, you MUST arrange for an adult to remain at the center during surgery and to stay with you the first night following surgery. The accompanying adult is not to leave the facility while you are in surgery. If the patient is a child, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child. If you travel by taxi or rideshare, you must have someone come along with you.

Advance Directive
Please bring medical advance directive information with you if you have them completed. If you would like information regarding Living Wills, Durable Power of Attorney, or Medical Advance Directives, please contact your lawyer or physician’s office.

Follow the directions on the postoperative instruction sheet, including those of your physician. You will receive a written copy of instructions to take home. If you had general anesthesia or IV sedation, rest at home for 24 hours, and avoid the following activities as the effects of sedation may last as long as 24 hours:

• Driving a motor vehicle

• Operating machinery

• Participating in sports

• Drinking alcoholic beverages

• Cooking

• Signing any important papers

• Smoking

• Walking up and down steps

• Making any important decision

• Taking care of children

• Participating in any strenuous activity 

You will be discharged when your physician determines that your recovery is progressing satisfactorily. This is usually 30 minutes to 1 hour following surgery, but may be longer depending on a number of variables. If, for any reason, your physician feels it is unwise for you to be discharged home from Grand Valley Surgical Center, you may be transferred to a local hospital.

You may receive a call from us a day or two after surgery to check on your progress. If you will not be recovering at home, please leave a telephone number where you can be reached. In the event of any physical difficulty after discharge, call your surgeon directly for instruction.

Will I get to talk to my doctor before I have surgery?
Yes, you will be able to speak with your surgeon and anesthesia provider before you have surgery.
 
Do I need someone to stay with me during my surgery?
Yes, you will need a responsible adult to bring you and stay at the center during your entire surgery.  If the patient is a minor, the legal guardian or parents are required to accompany the child.
 
What do I need to bring to the surgery center?
Picture ID, insurance card, payment for deductibles & co-pays – please leave all other valuables at home.
  
What does nothing to eat or drink past midnight mean?
No food, gum, candy, or even swallowing water when brushing your teeth.

What happens if I accidentally eat something after midnight?
Your surgery could be cancelled.

How long will I be in recovery?
The length of your stay depends on the type of surgery you are having. The pre-operative nurse will call you with instructions and give you information on your recovery stay.

Is there a pharmacy close by where I can get my pain medicine?
Yes, Haven Pharmacy is on-site pharmacy located on the lower level of our building, so you can pick up your prescription before you leave.

Do you have Wi-Fi in your lobby?
Yes, your guest is welcome to bring in a laptop.

After my surgery, about how long until I’m able to drive?
This will depend your procedure and your surgeon’s recommendations.

Who do I call if I have any questions after my surgery?
You can call your surgeon’s office with any questions.