Patient admission

Outpatient visits

Even if your surgery or procedure does not require you to stay overnight, there are some important things you need to take care of before coming to the hospital.

Testing for outpatient surgery patients
In preparation for outpatient surgery, you may have had some preliminary testing done at your doctor's office or another outside facility. If so, please ask to have the results faxed to the Pre-Admission & Testing Center at (203) 688-7536 before the day of your surgery.

Preparing for an out patient surgery visit

Obtaining your arrival time
Outpatients must call (203) 688-4107 the day before their surgery between 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to schedule their arrival time and receive pre-operative instructions. If your surgery is scheduled for a Monday, please call the Friday before admission.

Instructions for the day before your surgery

	Make sure you do not eat or drink anything after midnight. This includes water, candy, gum, vitamins, etc.
	You may brush your teeth or use mouthwash, but be very careful not to swallow any.
	If you are taking medication, ask your doctor if you should continue to take them or stop taking them the day before surgery.
	Do not wear makeup or nail polish the day of surgery.
	Please contact your surgeon if you develop any signs of illness before your surgery: cold, fever, sore throat, chest pain, infection, difficulty breathing.

Instructions for the day of your surgery

	Wear low-heeled, comfortable shoes and loose, comfortable clothing.
	If you are having leg or foot surgery, you must bring your own crutches and know how to use them.
	Please arrange to have a responsible adult drive you home. After sedation or anesthesia, you will not be allowed to drive, use public transportation or walk home.
	It is strongly recommended that you have an adult at home with you for the first 12 hours.

Next: Common questions about admission

Last revised: June 28, 2005 (LMc)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.