Two to 14 days before you're scheduled for surgery, you'll go for pre-admission testing. For the most part, this is a standard physical exam to ensure that you're in good health. Your nurse will talk to you about your family history, answer your questions, and find out what care and support you might need to recuperate at home. You will also meet with an anesthesiologist who will explain your options for sedation. Pre-admission testing can take from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how much testing is required.
Some facilities offer special programs for children and their parents.
This might involve a tour, a toy, and a videotape to make young patients feel less afraid. On the day of surgery, you'll again meet with an anesthesiologist who will answer your last-minute questions. If you haven't signed a consent form, you'll be asked to at this time. A nurse will show you into a private area where you can change into a gown. Depending on the type of surgery you're having, you may not need to get fully undressed.