How do I dress?
Please wear loose, casual, comfortable clothing. If you are having surgery from your waist, up, you will probably want to wear an oversized, button-down shirt. Also, please do no wear any jewelry or bring any valuables.
Can someone drop me off and pick me up after surgery?
THIS IS HIGHLY DISCOURAGED. However, as long as we have contact information for your ride, you may be left during your surgery. You may not use a taxi service. We must ensure that you will have someone to care for you during the first few hours after you arrive home from your surgery.
How long will I need to plan on being at Hawthorn Surgery Center?
We can only estimate the time you will be here depending on the procedure being performed, but plan 3-4 hours.
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What should I do if I am not feeling well?
If you are not feeling well, please contact your surgeon immediately. During normal business hours, you can call the Center for advise. There are some surgeries which are safer if delayed when you are sick. We need to know specific details to make the decision. Please do not delay in contacting your surgeon or the Center.
What should I do if I believe that I am pregnant?
It is very important for us to be aware of this possibility, as we will not perform procedures during pregnancy. If there is any doubt please contact us immediately.
Do you provide childcare?
No, you will need to plan for childcare, especially in the event that your stay may be longer than expected. CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT.
Where will my family/guests wait?
There is a waiting room where you check in with the receptionist. They will remain there until notified by our staff. Please limit the number of guests because your stay is short and space is limited.
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What happens to my clothes and personal belongings?
You will be provided with a bag for your clothes and personal belongings, which will be secured in the recovery room.
Will I get a prescription to take home?
Most patients receive their prescriptions from their physician before discharge, if needed. If you have any questions regarding your prescription, please contact your physician’s office. You will need to use a pharmacy of your choice after leaving our facility if given a prescription on discharge.
How will my pain be managed?
The management of your pain is of great importance to us. We will be assessing your level of pain from the time of admission until you receive our postoperative call at home. We need to inform and prepare you for each step of the process. This education will begin with our first contact. You will be repeatedly asked to rate your pain from a numerical scale called the Visual Analog Pain Scale, or for children, the Faces Pain Scale. Using the results of our communication we will alter the therapy as needed in order to assure your comfort.
The management of your pain will be taken very seriously. We will often use a combination of different modalities to help make you comfortable, choosing from oral medications, intravenous medications, nerve blocks, injection of local anesthetic during the surgery, etc. and prior to the surgery, the management of your pain should be discussed with both your anesthesiologist and surgeon. Please feel free to bring up any concerns or fears you may have. Remember that information on pain management gives you the appropriate expectations and hence a smoother, more comfortable recovery.
If I have any problems after surgery, who do I call?
You will need to contact your physician or visit your local emergency room for any questions or concerns after surgery.
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What are the pre-surgical fasting requirements?
No food or drinks (including water) after midnight the night before surgery. No candy or gum after midnight the night before surgery.
Should I take my usual medications?
Do no stop taking your usual medications unless your surgeon or anesthesiologist recommends that you stop taking them. Most medications should be taken, but some should not. The pre-operative nurse will go through your medications with you during your pre-op phone call. If you have any questions regarding your medication, call the pre-op nurse at 847-367-8100.
What types of anesthesia are available?
Anesthesiologists apply many techniques in the course of their duties. Broadly, these techniques are: general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and monitored anesthesia care.
When do I meet my anesthesiologist?
Your anesthesiologist will interview and examine you in the admitting area before your procedure. He or she will review your medical history, laboratory tests, and medical records. The type of anesthesia you will receive will also be discussed at this time.
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