When you arrive at the center our receptionist will greet you and complete your registration.   A Pre-OP nurse will take you into the Pre-OP area where you can change in private.  In the Pre-Op area, your nurse will review your medical history, medications you may be taking and any allergies to medications you may have.  Your vital signs will be taken and any questions you have will be answered at this time.  For most patients an IV will be started and medications will be administered intravenously.

Before your surgery/procedure your anesthesiologist and operating room nurse will introduce themselves to you.  They will review the same important questions and information previously asked.  We understand that the repeated questions may become tiring, but it is our policy to be double and triple check all your important information.  At many times during your care you will be asked the same questions.  It is essential that we are completely accurate with all medical information to ensure you have a good experience at our center.

The OR nurse will take you to the operating room.  It is often cooler in the OR and warm blankets will be provided for your comfort.  Once you have moved to the OR table, the anesthesiologist will place the monitoring equipment on you and you will receive your anesthetic.

After your procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area and monitored closely.  It is not uncommon to feel shaky, cold, light-headed or nauseated when waking up.  Please let your nurse know if you are uncomfortable as medication can be provided. 

When you are ready to go home, you and your caregiver will be given discharge instructions.  It is common to feel tired the rest of the day.  Within a few days, you will receive a follow-up call to see how you are doing. 

We hope to make your visit as comfortable as possible.  Please give us a call if you have any questions or concerns. 

If you have not already been contacted, please call the Surgery Center at 415-461-4400.  Questions and concerns can be addressed during your pre operative / pre-registration call.