Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Experience
We understand that preparing for surgery can be stressful, but at Andrews Institute, you’re in caring hands every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to making sure you’re well informed and comfortable throughout the process, from your initial visit to recovery. We’re here to answer your questions, ease your concerns, and ensure your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible—so you can focus on healing and getting back to the things that matter most to you.
To help you prepare, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after your surgery at Andrews Institute.
Before Your Surgery
1. Pre-Registration Process
Your One Medical Passport
An important part of your surgery preparation, you’ll receive a One Medical Passport Card from your surgeon’s office or register for your surgery (link – https://www.onemedicalpassport.com/?fid=1035), which contains important information about your procedure, including the date and facility details, as well as instructions for accessing the One Medical Passport portal. The portal is an encrypted and secure online system designed to make registration simple and stress-free.
When you receive the link to the One Medical Passport portal, you’ll be able to provide your medical history, current medications, prior surgeries, and other important details—all in one place. This information helps create your “medical passport” and is essential for us to deliver the best care on the day of your surgery. First-time users should create an account by clicking the Register button and following the guided steps.
To keep your surgery scheduled, it’s important to complete this information as soon as possible and accurately to ensure your surgery stays on schedule. If you encounter any issues or cannot complete the registration, please contact us at 448.227.9116 for assistance.
2. Nurse Pre-Op Call
Before your surgery, you’ll receive a call from one of our registered nurses (RN) to review the details of your pre-registration and ensure everything is in place. During this call, the nurse will provide important information about your upcoming procedure, including what to expect on the day of surgery and any specific instructions you need to follow.
This call is also your opportunity to ask any questions or share any concerns you may have. Whether you’re wondering about the surgery process, medications, or recovery, our team is here to provide the answers you need to feel more confident and prepared. We encourage you to take full advantage of this time to clarify any details.
3. The Day Before Surgery Prep
To help ensure your surgery goes smoothly and to reduce the risk of infection, there are a few important steps to follow the day before your procedure.
You’ll receive a text and an email message with your arrival time for the day of surgery one day prior. Please make sure to confirm your appointment by following the prompts in the text and/or email message.
It’s crucial not to eat or drink anything after midnight to ensure your body is ready for anesthesia.
We also ask that you shower with Hibiclens both the night before and the morning of your surgery. Hibiclens is a special antiseptic soap that helps kill germs on your skin and provides long-lasting protection, making it one of the most effective ways to prevent surgical site infections. By following these steps, you’re helping us keep your surgery safe and successful.
The Day of Surgery
4. Check-In
When you arrive for your surgery, you and your caregiver will check in on the first floor of the Andrews Institute Ambulatory Surgery Center. Use the main entrance and look for the door to the left of the water feature. Once inside, you’ll provide your photo ID and insurance card, and our team will help get you settled in.
Your caregiver will share a cell phone number so they can receive updates while you’re in surgery. Both of you will get wristbands with matching ID numbers, helping us keep everything organized and ensuring smooth communication throughout the day.
You’ll also have a bit of paperwork to complete before heading to the pre-op area, but we’ll guide you through it all and make sure you’re comfortable.
5. Pre-Op Procedures
Once you’ve completed check-in, an RN will guide you to the pre-op area where we’ll begin preparing you for surgery. This includes minor procedures such as placing an IV for sedation and preparing the surgical site. We know this can feel a little overwhelming, but our team will be with you every step of the way to ensure you’re comfortable and ready.
Before you head to the operating room, your surgeon will stop by to check in and answer any final questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to talk through any last-minute thoughts or concerns and make sure you’re feeling confident about the procedure.
Next, your Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and circulating nurse will meet with you to explain the anesthesia process. They’ll make sure you understand everything before you enter the OR and address any concerns to help you feel at ease.
After Surgery
6. Post-Op and Discharge
After your surgery, you will be taken to the Recovery Room, where our nursing team will closely monitor your condition. While you’re resting, your surgeon will contact your caregiver to discuss how everything went and what to expect next. Once the RN confirms that you’re stable and your pain is under control, we’ll begin preparing you for discharge.
Your caregiver will receive a bright blue folder containing all the discharge instructions, including guidance on medications, recovery tips, and what to watch for during your healing process. It’s important that your caregiver is at least 18 years old and agrees to stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery to ensure you’re well-supported.
7. Post-Surgery Follow-Up
Follow-Up
We understand that recovery can feel a bit uncertain, but you won’t be alone. The day after your surgery, we will send a follow-up text and email to check in on how you’re doing.
Surgeon Follow-Ups
Additionally, follow-up with your surgeon will be arranged based on your procedure to ensure you’re healing properly and to discuss your recovery progress. Your surgeon’s office will provide specific instructions for scheduling any necessary appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I wear on the day of surgery?
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to your surgery. If you’re having shoulder surgery, a front-buttoning shirt that’s a little larger than normal is ideal. Avoid wearing jewelry, nail polish, deodorant, or lotion on the day of surgery.
Can I wear my contact lenses during surgery?
No, contact lenses must be removed before surgery, so it’s best to wear glasses instead if possible. If you do wear contacts to the surgery center, they will need to be removed prior to your procedure.
How do I choose my caregiver, and what are their responsibilities?
Your caregiver should be at least 18 years old and able to stay with you throughout the surgery process, including the first 24 hours after you’re discharged. They’ll be responsible for receiving updates during surgery, taking care of your discharge instructions, and ensuring you’re safe and comfortable at home.
What should I do if I feel sick before surgery?
If you develop a fever, infection, or any change in your health before surgery, it’s important to contact your surgeon’s office and the surgery center as soon as possible.
Will I receive reminders or updates before my surgery?
Yes, you will receive a text message the day before your surgery with your arrival time and any last-minute instructions. If you don’t receive this, please contact us at 448.227.9223.
How long will I be at the surgery center?
While every procedure is different, most patients spend several hours at the center from check-in through recovery. You’ll be discharged once our nursing team confirms you are stable and your pain is manageable.
Can I eat or drink before surgery?
No, it’s important not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes water, chewing gum, and mints. Following this instruction helps ensure a safe anesthesia process.
What should I bring with me on the day of surgery?
Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and any necessary paperwork. It’s also helpful to have your caregiver’s contact information ready, as they will receive updates during your surgery. Be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Leave any valuables, such as jewelry and medication at home.
What time should I arrive on the day of surgery?
You will receive a text message the day before your surgery with your specific arrival time. If you don’t receive this, please contact us at 448.227.9223.
Who can I contact if I have questions after I go home?
If you have any questions or concerns after going home, please contact your surgeon’s office or the number provided in your discharge instructions.
How do I manage pain after surgery?
Your surgeon and nursing team will provide detailed instructions on managing pain, including medications.
Questions or Concerns? We’re Here to Help
If you have any specific questions or concerns about your procedure, please reach out to your surgeon’s office. All of the contact information you’ll need is included in the bright blue folder you’ll receive at discharge. This folder is your guide to everything related to your surgery and recovery, so we encourage you to keep it close by during your healing process. Whether you need to check your post-op instructions or find a phone number, the blue folder has it all.
If you have any immediate concerns after your surgery, don’t hesitate to contact us or your surgeon’s office for assistance.