What to Expect
Before Surgery
When to Notify Your Doctor
Contact your doctor’s office immediately if:
- You or a household member experience illness (cough, fever, cold, etc.).
- You suspect you are pregnant.
Food and Drink Guidelines
Food and drink before anesthesia can cause choking, vomiting, or aspiration and pose safety risks. Follow these rules or your case may be delayed or canceled.
Adult Surgical Patients – Surgery BEFORE 12 noon &/OR General Anesthesia
- Take morning medications with sips of water (unless it upsets your stomach)
- No food or drink after midnight before surgery
- Diabetics: Do not take medications the morning of surgery
- If using an insulin pump, set to basal rate
- If blood sugar <80, drink a small glass of clear fruit juice (not orange juice)
Adult Surgical Patients – Surgery AFTER 12 noon
- Take morning medications with sips of water
- You may have water, apple or cranberry juice, soda, or black coffee (no milk or cream) up to 2 hours before arrival time
- You may NOT have: solid food, candy, gum, milk, dairy, or orange juice
Day of Surgery
- Follow food and drink requirements
- An adult (18+) driver must bring you home and remain within one mile or on-site
- Brush teeth and shower (no lotion or perfume)
- No contact lenses
- Leave valuables at home
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing (button tops preferred, no dresses)
- Bring medication list, insurance card, photo ID, and payment method
- Bring Medical Power of Attorney/Guardianship papers if applicable
Arrival
Arrival time is given by your doctor’s office. If delayed, call 505-474-9880. Arrival time ≠ surgery time — plan up to four hours from check-in to discharge.
Process Overview
- Registration: Check in, complete paperwork, and pay any balance.
- Pre-Op: Nurse prepares you; anesthesia provider evaluates and administers medication.
- Surgery: Surgeon performs the operation with the surgical team.
- Recovery: Nurse monitors you until discharge. Discharge instructions provided verbally and on paper. A nurse will call the following day to check on your recovery.
After Surgery
Post-Surgery
- Leave with a responsible adult.
- Do not drive for 24 hours.
- Have an adult available for 24 hours post-surgery.
