You will be asked to rate your pain while in the Center on a scale of “0” to “10” where zero means you have no pain and “10” means you have the worst pain imaginable. This will give us some indication of your pain tolerance. You may be given a prescription for pain medication to be taken when you get home, but no pain medication will completely take away all of your discomfort. The medications should make your situation tolerable.
Pain serves an important purpose - it reminds you not to overdo it, to take it easy and allow your body to heal. Some post-operative discomfort is to be expected, but excessive pain can be a sign of a problem. If you are in significant distress be sure to call your surgeon.
Remember!
You may not go home alone in a taxi or on public transportation.
Do not wear jewelry (including body piercing ornaments) to surgery. Leave all valuables at home for safekeeping. There are no safes at San Mateo Surgery Center.
Bring your identification, your 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 physician and/or anesthesiologist. This information is essential to your safety during the procedure period.
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.
