Before Surgery/ FAQ
All patients must have a history and physical within 30 days of surgery.
Any special lab work or x-rays necessary for your procedure will be arranged by your physician prior to the date of your surgery.
If you have an infection, fever, or noticeable change in your health since your last office visit, inform your doctor.
The Pre-Op Registration Nurse will call you on the business day before surgery between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM. She will give you instructions for surgery.
Do I need blood work/labs?
No blood work is needed unless you have a pre-existing condition, such as: Coumadin Therapy, liver issues, clotting disorders, Hemochromotosis.
What if I am on Coumadin/Warfarin?
If you are on Coumadin/Warfarin, you must have an INR drawn 1-2 days prior to surgery. Blood work is done through your primary care physician. Results must be faxed to 888-244-4902.
What if I have had MRSA?
If you have or have had a MRSA infection, you must do the following:
- If MRSA was under one year from date of scheduled surgery, you will need to have 3 negative nasal swabs within a month of your surgery. Swabs must be at least 24 hours apart.
- If MRSA was over one year from date of scheduled surgery, 1 negative nasal swab within a month of your surgery.
Results must be faxed to 888-244-4902.
What if I have cardiac issues or if I am under the care of a cardiologist?
If you have a history of cardiovascular disease, please contact your cardiologist and have a Cardiac Clearance and your most recent echocardiogram and/or stress test faxed
Results must be faxed to 888-244-4902
What if I have a Cardiac Stent?
If you have a cardiac stent, you must remain on your aspirin regimen.
Do I need an EKG?
You will need an EKG if you are over 65 or if you have a pre-existing cardiac condition.
Why do I have to arrive an hour and a half before my surgery?
You will meet your pre-op nurse, change into a hospital gown, review medical history, begin your IV, meet with your anesthesiologist, and briefly meet with your surgeon. If you are not planning on being at home on the day of surgery, or you are from out of town, please call or email us at preop@bostonoutpatient.com with the telephone number where you can be reached. In the event of a schedule change we may call and ask you to come in earlier.
What is a Nerve Block?
Our anesthesiologists commonly perform regional nerve blockades in order to reduce pain post-operatively. The nerve block involves injecting local anesthetic onto or around the nerves for control of pain.
Your anesthesiologist and surgeon can address the nerve block in more detail on the day of your surgery.
How will I know if my PCP faxed my physical or my EKG?
You may email preop@bostonoutpatient.com.
Can I drive myself or take a taxi/”The Ride”?
No, you cannot drive yourself home after having anesthesia, you do need a responsible adult to accompany you home. If you take THE RIDE or a taxi, you do need a responsible adult to accompany you home.
Can I eat or drink before my surgery?
Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery, unless otherwise directed by a BOSS nurse. This includes gum and candy.
You may be instructed to take routine medications (blood pressure and cardiac medications) the morning of surgery. Take these medications with only a small sip of water.
What about my medications?
If you take medications regularly, you should be told by either your doctor or the nurse at the surgical center which medicines to take before surgery.
What should I wear?
Wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes. Do not wear any jewelry or body piercing.
For shoulder surgery patients, bring a front buttoning shirt that is two to three sizes larger than normal, if possible, so that you will be comfortably covered with your shoulder bandage in place.
Leave all valuables at home except your insurance card, picture ID and form of payment if required.