Outpatient Surgery Center
Northwest’s Outpatient Surgery provides a safe, clean and friendly environment for a variety of procedures. A highly skilled staff, known for their compassionate care and wonderful customer service, will guide you through every step of your procedure.
The following guidelines should be followed in preparing for any outpatient surgery.
Before Surgery
Outpatient Testing
Testing, including blood work, urinalysis, X-rays or EKGs, may be required before your procedure. Appointments can be made when the surgery is scheduled or by calling the outpatient scheduler (410-521-8383) at least one week before surgery to arrange a convenient time for testing. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday with Saturday hours 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Patients receiving local anesthesia typically do not need outpatient testing. Test results and reports not completed at Northwest should be faxed (410-922-6031) to the pre-admission testing coordinator at least three days prior to surgery.
Pre-Op Phone Call
At least three days prior to surgery, you should receive a call from Northwest Hospital staff. The information gathered by staff will help them to plan for your care during your hospital stay and when you return home.
Food and Drink
During your pre-op phone call, you will receive specific instructions regarding your food and drink restrictions in the hours prior to surgery. Please call the Outpatient Surgery Center (410-521-5940) if you have not received a call and a nurse or anesthesiologist will review instructions with you. The food and drink instructions are age and procedure specific and must be followed to avoid a delay or cancellation of your procedure.
Medications
If you take any medications, including over-the-counter pills and diet or herbal products, contact your doctor the day before surgery. Specific instructions often must be followed regarding your medications. You should bring a complete list of medications, including dosage and frequency, to the hospital on the day of your procedure.
Precautions Against Infection
If you will have an incision, you should bathe or shower with antibacterial soap for three consecutive days before surgery. You should take a bath or shower the night before surgery. These precautions may decrease your likelihood of infection following surgery.
The Day of Surgery
What to Bring
Please bring all health insurance cards and a valid driver’s license or identification. Those patients receiving anesthesia should make arrangements for a ride home. A parent or guardian must accompany patients under age 18. Any valuables, including jewelry, money or credit cards, should be left at home.
Proper Dress for the Operating Room
Dress comfortably and wear loose clothing. Dentures, contact lenses, eyeglasses, prosthetic devices and hairpieces may need to be removed and can be stored safely during your procedure. You will wear a hospital gown during the procedure.
Following Surgery
Anesthesia Recovery
If you receive local anesthesia, you typically will go home immediately following your procedure. If you have received general, IV sedation, IV general, spinal, regional or epidermal anesthesia, you will spend one to two hours in the recovery room, where nurses will monitor your blood pressure, respiration and pulse.
Visitors
Visitors can not be accommodated in the recovery room and are asked to remain in nearby waiting areas. Unusual circumstances will be considered when appropriate.
Instructions for Care
Before leaving the hospital, you will receive instruction for your postoperative care, including a list of acceptable medications and daily activities. If necessary, you may be admitted to the hospital.
For More Information
To learn more about the Outpatient Center or to tour the facility, call 410-521-5940 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.