Share:

Preparing to have surgery is stressful, and it’s normal to feel uneasy about the procedure and your recovery. However, educating yourself about the process will alleviate your worries and make you feel confident about the outcome. As soon as your doctor recommends surgery and schedules it with a surgery center, make a list of questions to ask so you will understand what’s ahead.

3 Questions for a Surgery Center Before a Procedure

1. Is This Surgery Absolutely Necessary?

Ask your surgeon whether there are alternatives to an operation for your condition. Find out what is likely to happen if you don’t have the procedure, and ask your doctor to review the benefits and risks of not only the surgery but other options. Even if several treatments are available, you might find surgery is the best long-term solution.

2. How Should I Prepare?

Surgery centerDepending on your procedure, age, and overall health, you could need medical tests before you undergo treatment at the surgery center. You might have to change your medication, diet, or level of physical activity to ensure you’re in the best condition for the operation. Most hospitals forbid food and drink intake for a set period before a procedure, so ask for a cutoff time. Inquire whether you will need someone to transport you home from the surgery center so you can make arrangements.

3. What Can I Expect During Recovery?

Have your physician explain potential side effects of your surgery, such as pain and nausea, as well as make recommendations for medication and other ways to cope with the discomfort. Ask how long you can expect your recovery to take and adjustments you should make at home to ease the process. For instance, some procedures might prevent you from going up and down stairs or lifting objects of a certain weight, so make sure you understand your limitations during your recovery.

 

If you need specialized or preventative care in the Mid-Willamette Valley area, turn to Santiam Hospital. With a state-of-the-art emergency room and high-quality diagnostic imaging equipment, the caring staff at this surgery center is ready to address your medical concerns. Call (503) 769-2175 to speak with a hospital representative and visit their website for information about their services, including orthopedic and pulmonology care. Follow them on Twitter for more health tips from their experts.

tracking