Preparing for outpatient surgery...
The Come & Go Treatment Center is a specialized nursing unit within Saint Francis Memorial Hospital's Surgical Services Department, that meets the unique needs of patients whose physicians have recommended same-day surgery. These procedures can include orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, ophthalmologic surgery, endoscopic procedures and certain radiologic interventions.
Our highly skilled staff of physicians, nurses and technologists is experienced in all phases of perioperative care. Our goal is to ensure that you experience an optimal surgical experience and an excellent outcome. You r safety, comfort, privacy and convenience needs are all addressed in an atmosphere of professional and compassionate service.
Pre-registration:
Your surgeon will arrange a date and time for your operation with our Surgical Services Department; at the same time, prior to the day of surgery, a same-day intake appointment is scheduled for you with the Admitting Department and with the pre-assessment nurse. The pre-assessment nursing evaluation is generally conducted in person three to seven days in advance of your surgery date. In some cases the pre-assessment nursing evaluation can be accomplished by telephone. Endoscopic and radiologic procedures generally do not require an appointment with the pre-assessment nurse.
Prior to your appointment, you will receive a packet of information, containing forms that you should complete and bring with you to the admitting office and pre-admission assessment.
What to bring:
- Completed forms (brief health history and medication/allergy list)
- Any special requests as outlined by your physician
- The name and telephone number of the person who will be driving you home after surgery
- Current insurance card.
Hours:
Monday through Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location:
900 Hyde Street, 2nd Floor
(415) 353-6220
Pre-Assessment Nurse:
900 Hyde Street, 1st Floor
(415) 353-6880
Available Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
*A parent or guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18 years.
The Day before Surgery:
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight (this includes water, cough drops, mints, gum, etc.).
- You may brush your teeth the morning of surgery.
- Arrange to have a family member or friend drive you home from the hospital.
- You may also want to arrange to have someone stay with you and/or to care for your dependents (i.e., elders or small children) upon your arrival home.
- If you notice a change in your physical condition - such as a cold or sore throat, please notify your physician immediately.
- If you are on any type of medication (aspirin, blood pressure medications, anti-inflammatory medications, etc.), ask your physician before surgery if you should take the medication on the day of surgery.
- Please bring a list of the medications you are currently taking (do not bring your medications to the hospital).
- If you take herbs and diet aids, please discuss this with your physician prior to the day of surgery.
- Minimize or cease smoking and/or drinking alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery.
The Day of Surgery:
- Dress in loose, comfortable clothing and arrive promptly at the time arranged (i.e., sweat pants and top).
- Wear comfortable non-slip shoes.
- Arrive promptly at the time arranged (usually two hours prior to surgery time.
- If you need glasses or contact lenses to read, please bring them. They will be needed for confirming and signing consent forms.
- Bring appropriate containers for eyeglasses, contact lenses and dentures, if worn.
- Do not wear jewelry and piercings (the hospital is not responsible for valuable items).
- Leave credit cards at home. Bring only a small amount of cash to meet your needs.
- Bring a picture ID and your insurance card/information.
- Bring the name and telephone numbers of all contact persons, especially the name and number of the person who is expected to accompany you home.
Visitors may wait for you in the waiting room. As a general rule, visitors are not allowed in the recovery room. This is for patient safety, logistics and privacy concerns.
After Surgery:
- Relax, rest and recover.
- Follow your discharge instructions.
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke until cleared by your physician.
- Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or make important legal decisions for a full 24 hours after surgery.
- Have someone available to help the first 24 hours after surgery.
Most patients go home from the hospital within one to two hours after surgical recovery. Your physician and nurse will advise you when you are able to leave the hospital, and you will be discharged directly from the Come & Go Treatment Center. If your physician decides it is necessary for you to stay overnight, the acute care facility is immediately available to meet your medical needs
You can call (415)353-6880 to contact the Pre-Admit Nurse Facilitator.
