About Your Surgery
Important patient instructions for surgical procedures before, the day of and after surgery.
We have added the instructions below to assist you in making your visit with us a safe and comfortable experience. Please follow these instructions unless otherwise specified by your physician.
Before Surgery
If you become ill or take any new medications prior to your surgery, please notify your doctor immediately.
If you are taking medication, such as for high blood pressure or diabetes, the center will provide information on what medications you should take, before the day of the surgery.
Take a shower or bath, wash your hair and brush your teeth the night before or morning of your surgery.
DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING AFTER MIDNIGHT, not even water, gum, candy, mints or coffee. Food in the stomach can cause serious complications and the surgery could be canceled or postponed.
Call your surgeon if you develop a cold, fever or a respiratory problem before your surgery.
For women, if there is any possibility you are pregnant, please notify the surgeon.
For your safety, you MUST have a responsible adult present during your surgery who will be able to drive you home.
Please review the opioid alternatives pamphlet created by the Florida Department of Health: https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/non-opioid-pain-management/_documents/alternatives-facts-11x17-eng.pdf Most of our procedures are done using a narcotic free technique. You will have a chance to ask questions with an anesthesia provider prior to the start of your procedure.
Day of Surgery
Wear comfortable, casual clothing and shoes. You may want to bring a pair of socks to wear during your stay.
Arrive at the time your pre-operative nurse has instructed. This will allow adequate time for all necessary admission procedures.
We are not responsible for jewelry, money or valuables, so please leave them at home.
On the day of your surgery, please bring a photo ID, insurance card(s) and address verifications.
Bring a list of current medications and dosages.
In response to Covid-19, we are limiting the number of people in our facility. To maximize the comfort for all visitors, patients may be accompanied by only one (1) person. At this time, we encourage those responsible for our adult patients to wait in their vehicle or leave a contact number so that you may be called when the patient is ready for discharge.
In response to Covid-19, current policy only allows for one parent/ legal guardian to accompany a pediatric patient.
If the patient is a minor, a parent/guardian must be in the building at all times. You may bring a special toy, blanket, pacifier for your child.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages or take recreational drugs prior to surgery.
Do not wear contact lenses; you may wear glasses.
For women- SCE’s policy is to complete a pregnancy test prior to surgery on all female patients of child-bearing age, past menarche, and who have not had a hysterectomy. Therefore, on the day of your procedure, please see a staff member if you need to utilize the facility restroom prior to surgery.
The SCE’s policy is that staff, patients and visitors do not smoke while on the premises of the SCE.
After Surgery
After your procedure you will be moved to our recovery area. Here our nurses, anesthesiologist and surgeon/physician will monitor your condition until you are ready to go home. Although the time varies, most patients are discharged within 30 minutes to 1 hour.
You may experience some drowsiness or dizziness, depending on the type of anesthesia you received. Our staff will provide you with ordered medication to help you achieve optimal comfort. It is reasonable to expect some pain and soreness after a surgical procedure.
Your physician will provide specific instructions for care at home during your recovery. We will have reviewed these instructions with you during your preoperative phone call. We will answer an additional questions you may have prior to discharge. You will also receive a written copy of these instructions to refer to while recovering at home. Your physician’s after-hours phone number will be provided to you in the event you have questions upon returning home.
Your surgeon will provide post-operative instructions regarding diet, rest and medication. In the event of any difficulty, call your surgeon or his/her answering service. At any time if you feel you have and emergency, please call 911 or present to the closest, Emergency Department.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours after receiving general anesthesia or pain medication.
After discharge you will need someone to remain with you for the first 24 hours after your surgery.
Patient Information
Before Surgery
Pre-Operative Instructions
and procedures that the patient will need to follow
prior to surgery >>
Day of Surgery
Operative Instructions
and procedures that the patient will need to follow
day of surgery >>
After Surgery
Post-Operative Instructions
and procedures that the patient will need to follow
after surgery >>
We are conveniently located near Gulf Coast Hospital.
Our hours of operation:
Mon - Fri 6AM - 5PM