If you are preparing for surgery, it is natural to feel anxious or have questions. Our team at Episcopal Health Services (EHS) is here to guide you every step of the way and help you to understand what to expect before, during and after your procedure.
It is important for you and your loved ones to communicate openly with our surgeons and specialists and ask any questions you may have. The more you understand, the better prepared you will be for your surgery and the recovery process.
Pre-Surgical Testing
All patients scheduled for surgery at (EHS) are required to register with the hospital’s Admitting Center and complete pre-surgical testing three to seven days before their procedure. This appointment will be scheduled by EHS’ pre-surgery testing staff after your physician has booked your procedure. A member of the pre-surgical team will contact you with detailed information regarding your appointment.
Pre-surgical testing is conducted Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the Ambulatory Surgery Unit (AMSU), located on the hospital’s second floor.
During your appointment, you will complete a medical questionnaire and undergo a review of your health history. Depending on your current health status, the type of procedure and the availability of recent test results, you may also require blood work, an electrocardiogram (EKG) or a chest X-ray.
If blood tests are required, please do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before your testing appointment.
Registration
Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled pre-surgical testing appointment to allow sufficient time for registration. The Admitting Center registrar will collect and verify your personal and insurance information. To help streamline this process, please bring:
- A government-issued photo ID
- Documentation from any recent physical examinations conducted by your physician
- Reports from recent outside medical tests
- A complete list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, including dosages
- Insurance cards with account numbers
- Any additional relevant documents, such as signed consent forms or a health care proxy, if available
Day Before Surgery
You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive or accompany you home after your procedure, as the effects of anesthesia make it unsafe to travel alone. Failure to make appropriate arrangements will result in cancellation of your surgery.
If you will not be at home the day before surgery, or if there are any changes in your condition or availability, please call:
- Between 6:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.: 718-869-7704
- After 5:00 p.m.: 718-869-7000 and ask for the nursing supervisor
If you experience any changes in your health prior to surgery —such as a cold, cough, fever or chills — notify your surgeon and the Ambulatory Surgery Center at 718-869-7704.
Eating, Drinking and Medication Management
Please follow all instructions provided by your physician regarding medications, skin preparation or bowel preparation on the day before surgery. Unless otherwise directed:
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before surgery.
- Small sips of water are permitted for taking essential medications.
If you are taking anticoagulant medications such as aspirin, Heparin, Plavix or Coumadin, consult your physician to determine whether these medications should be temporarily discontinued prior to your surgery.
Day of Surgery
Before Leaving Home
- You may bathe or shower prior to your surgery.
- Avoid swallowing water while brushing your teeth.
- Leave all valuables, including jewelry and cash, at home.
- Remove all piercings.
- Provide glasses, contact lenses or dental appliances to a family member or to your Ambulatory Surgery Unit nurse upon arrival for safe keeping.
- Secure long hair by braiding or tying it back.
- Bring any completed and notarized advance directives, power of attorney documents or living wills.
Upon Arrival at the Hospital
- Report to the Admitting Office.
- Your accompanying family member or guest should proceed to the Ambulatory Surgery Center waiting area. They will receive updates throughout your procedure.
Important Telephone Numbers
Admitting Office (1st Floor)
- Phone: 718-869-7771
Ambulatory Surgery (2nd Floor)
- Phone: 718-869-7704 (6:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
- Phone: 718-869-7000 (after 5:00 p.m.)
- Fax: 718-869-5389
After Surgery
Following your procedure, you will be transferred to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), where you will be closely monitored by nursing staff. After evaluation by the anesthesiologist and PACU nurses, you will return to the Ambulatory Care Unit for further observation prior to discharge.
On the day following your surgery, a member of the Ambulatory Care Unit staff will contact you by telephone to assess your recovery, address any concerns and review discharge instructions and follow-up care.
For more information on preparing for surgery or surgical services at Episcopal Health Services, call 718-869-7704.