Have questions?

Phone: 760-940-0997
Fax: 760-940-0407

Before Your Surgery Checklist

If a pre-operative visit is not scheduled at the surgery center, a Pre-Op Nurse will call you prior to your surgery to collect information about your health to expedite your admission process.

If you have not received a phone call with instructions at least one day before your surgery or have additional questions please call us at 760-940-0997 between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM.


It is important for you to follow these guidelines before surgery to prevent delay or cancellations.

Food and Drink
The night before your surgery you may eat a light meal before 11:00 p.m. Do not drink or eat anything after midnight—not even coffee or water. You may brush your teeth, remembering not to swallow anything.

Pain patients may have clear liquids –no dairy, cream or fats– six (6) hours prior to your procedure IF you are having sedation.

Alcohol
Do not drink alcohol after midnight the night before your procedure.

Smoking/Tobacco
No smoking/tobacco after midnight the night before your surgery.

Makeup, Nail Polish, Jewelry (including body jewelry)
Please remove all these items before surgery.

Clothing
Wear loose, casual, comfortable clothing to fit over dressings.

Valuables
Please leave valuables at home.

Notify The Center & Your Surgeon If:

  • You have an elevated temperature, cough, cold, vomiting or diarrhea between your last visit to the surgeon and the day of your surgery.
  • You suspect you may be pregnant.
  • You are taking: diet pills, aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, or certain herbal medicines. You may need to stop taking these 1-2 weeks before your surgery. You can discuss this with your surgeon.

What You Need The Day Of The Surgery:

  • Information To Bring: Insurance cards, photo ID, Medicare or Medical Assistance information, numbers and addresses, out-of-pocket estimate provided.
  • Driver: You must plan to have someone drive you home. You may use a taxi or public transportation if your caregiver accompanies you on the ride home.
  • Escort: A friend, relative or dedicated caregiver MUST stay with you for the remainder of the day.
  • Legal Guardian: A legal guardian must be in the center AT ALL TIMES for children and dependent adults.
  • Care For Children: If you have young children at home for whom you normally care for, plan for someone else to care for them for at least the first 24 hours following your surgery.
  • Interpreter: If the patient cannot read, speak English or use sign language, an interpreter is required. If you need assistance arranging for an interpreter, please contact the Scheduling department 760-940-0997 as soon as possible.