Post-Operative Recovery

We will ensure you have a post-operative plan of care that supports a safe and comfortable recovery.

Our team members understand the concerns many patients have about their post-operative care, and we are here to alleviate their worries. We will inform both patients and caretakers of the methods and processes necessary to ensure a proper recovery. The following questions should adequately address most procedures, but our medical staff is available to address any additional questions or concerns:

What will happen if I am not able to go home?

Admissions to a hospital from a surgery center happen occasionally. In certain circumstances, your physician or anesthesiologist may determine that you need to be transferred to a hospital for additional postoperative care.

What if I am not feeling well once I get home?

If you are in serious pain or exhibit warning symptoms described in your discharge instructions, please call your physician, go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911.

How long will I stay after my procedure?

The amount of recovery time varies from patient to patient. After your procedure, a nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are alert and stable. You will be sent home as soon as your health care team feels it is safe to discharge you from the facility.

How will my pain be managed?

The management of your pain is of great importance to us. We will be assessing your level of pain from the time of admission until you receive our post operative call at home. While in our care, you will repeatedly be asked to rate your pain using a numerical scale (1-10), or for children, the “Faces Pain Scale”.

We will often use a combination of different modalities to help make you comfortable: oral medications, intravenous medications, nerve blocks, and/or injection of local anesthetic. Prior to the surgery, the management of your pain should be discussed with both your anesthesiologist and surgeon. Please feel free to bring up any concerns or fears you may have. Remember that information on pain management provides you with the appropriate expectations, and hence, a smoother, more comfortable recovery. It is important to closely follow instructions regarding your post operative pain medication. Many pain medications take 20 to 30 minutes to begin to work, so for best results, the pain medication should be taken before the pain becomes too strong.

We provide exceptional education in postoperative care so that you feel confident in your recovery once you are home.

What can I eat when I get home?

Your surgeon may have specific recommendations for your post operative diet. We suggest that you eat lightly after surgery, and strongly encourage you to drink plenty of fluids. You should avoid alcoholic beverages.

What can I do to help prevent a post operative infection?

After your procedure, make sure everyone in your household frequently washes their hands. Also, be sure to follow all instructions provided by your health care team regarding the care and cleaning of your surgical site as well as the administration of post-operative medications and bandages.

Can my family be with me after the procedure?

Yes. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area. A nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are comfortable as the anesthesia begins to wear off. Once you are awake and alert, your family will be invited back to the recovery area. Special arrangements are made for children having surgery.

May I drive home?

No. Patients will not be allowed to drive after a procedure and must make necessary transportation arrangements.  If you plan to walk or take public transportation from our facility after a procedure, please make sure a responsible adult accompanies you.

Should I continue my usual medications after the procedure?

Most patients should continue their usual medications after surgery. Patients who have diabetes and those patients on blood thinners may require some adjustment of their medications. These instructions will be clarified with you before you leave the facility. If you have any questions, please call your surgeon or primary care physician.

Will I be billed separately by the anesthesiologist?

Yes. If administered, you will receive a separate bill from your anesthesia provider.

We are an affiliate of United Surgical Partners International, partnered with local physicians, and accredited by Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. We are fully licensed by the state of Illinois and are Medicare certified.

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PRE-ASSESSMENT FORM