Please read Our Patient Information for more detail on scheduling elective outpatient ambulatory procedures and tests, visitation and what to expect in preparing for a surgical procedure.
Welcome to the Ambulatory Surgery Unit of St. Anthony Community Hospital. At St. Anthony Community Hospital, surgical procedures are performed on an outpatient basis by a specially trained staff supported by our full range of hospital services.
For your comfort, convenience and privacy, we provide a curb-side patient drop-off and pick-up area, free parking, a quick-registration area and a follow-up phone call from one of our nurses a day or so after your return home.
St. Anthony Community Hospital assures you that as an ambulatory surgery patient, you will receive the high quality professional medical attention and care community residents have come to expect from us over the years.
Prior to Your Surgery - Pre-Registration and Testing
After your surgery is scheduled, please call the hospital to set up an appointment for your pre-surgical testing. On the day of your scheduled appointment, come to the Admitting Office where a member of the Ambulatory Surgery Staff will meet you.
If you do not have an identification card from a previous visit, we will need the following information for our records:
- Your Social Security number
- Mailing address
- Home and business phone numbers
- Names and telephone numbers of next of kin
- Insurance information (please have your insurance cards available.)
- Insured's name
- Group number, policy number, insurance company billing office
- Your medical history
- Your current medication list
Laboratory tests, X-rays and other tests ordered by your physician will be completed, and, if necessary, a pre-surgical interview with the anesthesiologist will be scheduled.
If there is any change in your physical condition, such as a cold or fever between your pre-surgical testing and scheduled procedure, contact your physician as soon as possible.
If you are having general anesthesia, do not eat or drink anything, including water, gum or candy after midnight the night before surgery.
Please call the Admitting Office at 845-987-5187 after 3pm the day prior to your scheduled procedure for the definite time of your admission. If the procedure is scheduled for Monday, please call on Friday.
The Day of Your Surgery
Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight before your surgery unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
If you take Insulin or any other routine medication (for your blood pressure or your heart, for example) please consult your doctor for fasting instructions and whether or not you should take any medication the morning of your procedure. If you are taking a blood thinner such as Coumadin, please tell your surgeon. If you develop a fever, rash or cold, inform your doctor who may wish to postpone your procedure.
Please leave all jewelry, money and other valuables at home or with your family. Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off. All cosmetics, including make-up must be removed before surgery. If you wear dentures, a partial plate, contact lenses or any other prosthesis, you will be asked to remove them before surgery. We will label the item and keep it in a secure place until your return.
A registered nurse will take your blood pressure and temperature, explain procedures, answer your questions and prepare you for surgery. One parent/relative/friend may wait in the Ambulatory Unit with you prior to and after your procedure.
If you are unable to keep your surgery appointment or you are going to be late, please notify your doctor and the Admitting Office immediately at 845-987-5187.
After Your Surgery
Following surgery you will be taken to the Recovery Room. Recovery time varies with the type of procedure performed.
Please arrange to have a responsible adult available to drive you home after your surgery. You will not be discharged unless accompanied by an adult.
Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions with reference to medications, diet, and activity after surgery. Do not drink alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours after surgery and for as long as you are taking pain medication.
You may be lightheaded, dizzy or drowsy following surgery. For your protection, we recommend that you do not drive, operate machinery or make important decisions for approximately 24 hours after leaving the hospital.
If you have trouble breathing, excessive bleeding, persistent nausea or vomiting, extreme pain, swelling or fever, contact your doctor immediately.
When Your Child Has Surgery
One parent may wait with a child in the Ambulatory Surgery area. Your child may bring a favorite toy or blanket from home. Please bring the child's immunization records before being admitted for your scheduled procedure.
We welcome your comments and suggestions about your experience in the Ambulatory Surgery Unit. Please feel free to share your views with the Unit Nurse at the time of your follow-up call.