Bethesda Orthopaedic Institute

Bethesda Orthopaedic Institute

Outpatient Surgery

 

  • Several days prior to surgery, you will be asked to come to the Hospital for a one-on-one educational session with the pre-op nurse and anesthesia representative. Laboratory tests and final clearances will also be reviewed.
     
  • On the day before surgery, you will be contacted by the Hospital and told what time you are scheduled for surgery and what time to arrive at the Hospital. You will also be told to refrain from eating and drinking.
     
  • On the day of surgery, you will come to the Ambulatory Care Unit, check-in, and complete various consent forms. A pre-operative IV will also be started.
     
  • Holding Room: Anesthesia will perform a nerve block (if ordered by your physician).
     
  • Surgical Suite: The procedure will be performed.
     
  • Recovery Room: Nursing staff will closely monitor you as you wake up from the anesthesia.
     
  • Phase II Recovery: As you recover more fully from the anesthesia, you will be provided with a little food and drink. If necessary, physical/occupational therapy will assist you with the proper use of crutches or other medical devices that you may need at home. Following these activities, you will get dressed and prepare for leaving the Hospital.
     
  • Discharge: Just prior to discharge, nursing staff will review your discharge instructions including your follow-up visits, when you can resume every day activities (driving, showering, lifting, etc.) and when you are to begin physical therapy.
     
  • Follow-up Inquiries: Several days after your surgery, you will be contacted by a member of the Hospital’s nursing team to make sure you are progressing satisfactorily with your recovery. Every effort will be made to provide you with an ongoing line on communication between you and the Hospital so that all of your questions and concerns can be fully addressed