On the day of surgery, you will be asked to arrive at least 1 hour ahead of your scheduled surgery time. Bring your reading glasses/contacts and a case for safe-keeping if you need them.
You will register at the front desk and make any required payments at this time, so be sure to bring the appropriate form of payment. (cash, check, or credit card) If you have questions about your payment responsibility, please contact your insurance carrier and San Mateo Surgery Center’s business office prior to the day of surgery.
Once registered, the nurse will start the preoperative process. During this phase, multiple members of our team will ask you about the site of your surgery (i.e. right knee, left elbow, etc). Please do not place any other markings on your skin.
You will have a chance to speak with an anesthesiologist and your surgeon before having your procedure.
Important:
If your procedure is scheduled in the morning, DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING AFTER MIDNIGHT THE NIGHT BEFORE.
If your procedure is scheduled in the afternoon, this may vary depending on the scheduled time of surgery so please check with our nurse at (650) 570-0529 if you have any questions.
Please arrange for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
You may not go home alone in a taxi, rideshare, or on public transportation.
Do not wear jewelry (including body piercing ornaments) to surgery. Leave all valuables at home. San Mateo Surgery Center is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or broken items.
Bring your identification, insurance card, and some method of payment (cash, check or credit card) for any co-payment you may have.
Your routine medications: If you are taking heart or high blood pressure medicine, do NOT stop taking them before your procedure. Be sure to communicate every medication that you have been taking to your surgeon and/or anesthesiologist.
If you are 50 years old or older, you will need to have seen your internist/general practitioner for a complete history and physical exam as well as an EKG.
Any patient regardless of age with a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, or diabetes must also have a history and physical and EKG. This includes conditions that are under control with medication.
Patients with sleep apnea will need to have a sleep study done or a report from a recent study.
Food
Pain medications can cause gastrointestinal upset. Having some food in your stomach can help to avoid an upset stomach. Pain medications can also cause constipation which is worsened by inactivity in the post-operative period. You can help by drinking plenty of water and juice. Start eating gradually and let your stomach be your guide, but stay away from spicy or greasy food. Eat fruit, vegetables, whole grain cereals and breads.
