Outpatient Surgery

• Outpatient treatment
• Same-day admission procedures
• Pre-evaluation program
   

The Ambulatory Surgery Unit (ASU) is an area where patients are prepared for surgery and discharged after recovery in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU). We see both outpatients and same day admissions and do a wide variety of surgical procedures. The staff consists of
registered nurses and nursing assistants. All RNs are critical care trained and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certified with a minimum of twenty years experience.

What to expect

Upon admission you will be asked to change into a surgical gown. Jewelry, including all piercing, must be removed. Please have nothing by mouth, including lifesavers, gum or water. A nurse will review your health history and start an IV. Also other procedure specific preparations will be done. The anesthesia staff will speak with you and answer any related questions at that time.

Your family may join you after you are prepared for the operating room and may wait with you until your procedure time. Please limit visitors to two. The nurse will inform you of the approximate length of your procedure. Family - please try to remain in the waiting area until you hear from the surgeon. Pagers are available at the volunteer desk if you must leave the waiting area.

 

After Your Surgery

The PACU, also known as the recovery room, is a critical care area where patients are taken after surgery. As a patient in PACU, a RN will monitor your vital signs very closely while you “wake up” from anesthesia. ASU and PACU staff work closely with the anesthesia team and evaluate your surgical wound and pain status.

You will remain here at least one to two hours. PACU time varies greatly with each patient and procedure performed. Family members will not be permitted in PACU. This is necessary to assure patient confidentiality, as well as to allow the nurse to attend and thoroughly take care of your needs. Exceptions to this rule are made with consideration in special situations. PACU nurses will update waiting family members every two hours. We understand and respect that waiting is an anxious time. We ask for your patience in advance, as our highly skilled
and professional staff take care of your loved one.

After the effects of anesthesia have worn off and your comfort needs are met, you
will return to the ASU for discharge or be placed in a hospital room. Your family will be with you to review all discharge instructions. If you received any IV anesthetics, you will need someone to drive you home.

Thank you for choosing Alle-Kiski Medical Center for your surgical needs. Our goal is
to provide excellent service by making your experience stress free, safe and comfortable. We hope your experience with us meets and exceeds your expectations!

 

Last Updated: December 19, 2007