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P A T I E N T I N F O R M A T I O N |
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Ambulatory surgery, also known as outpatient surgery, allows the patient to go home after an operation rather than being admitted to a hospital. Advances in surgical technology and anesthetic drugs have made ambulatory surgery a very positive experience. In fact, over 65% of all surgical procedures performed in the United States are performed in an ambulatory setting. Many surgeons prefer Ambulatory Surgery Centers because the environment is friendlier for patients and their families than in a hospital setting and the Centers offer more cost-effective medical care. Ambulatory Surgery Centers maintain the same high standards of patient care as hospitals.
Benefits of Ambulatory Surgery According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, patients prefer Ambulatory Surgery Centers to a hospital setting for surgery. Some of the reasons include:
Why Should I have my operation at The Center? The
Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester offers a warm
and personalized setting that is convenient
and efficient, allowing the patient to quickly return
to the comfort of his or her own home. Parents may
stay with their child before and after surgery, and on
occasion, may even go in to the operating room
until their child has fallen asleep. Parents are
encouraged to bring a favorite
The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester is committed to providing special care for our pediatric patients. The family waiting area features a children's play area with toys, books and video entertainment. Before the child goes into the operating room, parents may be with their child in private cubicles with a selection of videos. For younger patients, parents may, in many cases, accompany their child in to the operating room until he/she has fallen asleep. Parents may also be with their child upon awakening from anesthesia.
Your diet on the day of surgery is very important. Please follow the diet instructions above very carefully to avoid having your surgery cancelled. Please call us if you have any questions. It is important that you arrive at The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester at the time set by the Center. Remember, you must call us one business day before your surgery between noon and 3:00 p.m. to confirm your arrival time. (We are closed Saturdays, Sundays and holidays). Patients need to arrive one hour before the start of their surgery to allow time for preoperative preparations. Please call us if you have any questions.
On admission, the Preoperative Nurse will review your medical history, discuss preparations for surgery, the surgical procedure, discharge plans and care at home. Please use this opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Be sure to advise the nursing staff of any medical problems you have, and any medications you are taking (including prescriptions, over-the-counter and herbals).
An
anesthesiologist will review your medical history and
discuss your options for anesthesia on the day of
surgery. The type of anesthesia you receive depends on
your general health and
If your surgeon would like you to be evaluated by an anesthesiologist, or if you would like to speak to an anesthesiologist prior to the day of your surgery, please call the Center at (914) 244-6789 to make arrangements.
Your surgeon and anesthesiologist are responsible for determining when you are ready for discharge. When you are discharged, the nurse will review with you instructions for your care at home. We encourage you to ask questions -- it is crucial for you to clearly understand all post-operative instructions. You will also receive emergency contact numbers in the unlikely event that you require medical assistance after you leave. All patients must have a responsible adult to escort them home. Patients should have an adult with them for the first 24 hours after surgery. Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcoholic beverages, make any important decisions, or take drugs other than those prescribed by your physician for at least the first 24 hours. We recommend two adults to accompany a child home; one to care for the child and the other to drive the car. When you arrive home, rest for the remainder of the day; your body needs time to recover from the stress of surgery. Gradually resume your normal activities. Follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon regarding diet, exercise and resuming regular medication. A nurse will call you the next business day to see how you are doing and answer any questions you may have.
The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester was designed to make your outpatient surgery experience comfortable for you and your family members. Our entire staff is dedicated to providing the highest quality care available. As part of our ongoing Quality Improvement Program, all patients are given a Patient Satisfaction Survey. We urge you to please share your comments with us regarding your experience at the Center. Thank you!
A Billing Representative from The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester will contact you in advance of your surgery to confirm your insurance information. All fees not covered by insurance must be fully paid in advance of your surgery. For your convenience, we accept VISA, MasterCard and your bank's debit card. If you have any questions about your bill, please call our Billing Representative at 914-244-6776.
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THE DAYS BEFORE YOUR SURGERY Your diet
before surgery is VERY IMPORTANT! Adults and
children No solid food
after midnight. ************************** Patient may
follow his/her regular diet (i.e., eat solid
foods or drink formula or milk) until 6 hours before
arrival at the Center. * Clear
liquids include water, ginger ale, apple juice
(without pulp), or black coffee or black tea
(without milk).
THE DAY OF
SURGERY Please call us at |
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The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Westchester
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