About Your Surgery

Click on the Frequently Asked Questions below to learn about your surgery & COVID-19.

The questions below may help you for before, during, and after your surgery.

COVID-19

• What is COVID-19?

  Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory (lung) illness. Flu-like symptoms are:

  1. Fever
  2. Cough
  3. Shortness of breath
  4. Difficulty breathing
• How does COVID-19 spread?

  COVID-19 can be spread in several ways. Visit the following site for more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html.

• How can I prevent contracting or spreading the virus?
  1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  2. Avoid close contact, inside your home with people who are sick, and outside your home in general.
  3. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover (e.g., mask) when around others.
  4. Cover coughs and sneezes.
  5. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily, including tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
  6. Monitor your health daily by watching for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.  Take your temperature if symptoms develop.
• What do I do if I think I have COVID-19?
  1. Call your doctor right away for advice and minimize contact with others.
  2. Stay home except to get medical care.
  3. If you have shortness of breath, call 911 immediately.
  4. Do not come to Santa Barbara Surgery Center without clearance from your physician.
• Mask Options:
  1. You may purchase a mask from Walgreens, CVS, Wal-Mart or like retail stores.
  2. You may wear a cloth mask.

  To learn more about COVID-19 symptoms, visit cdc.gov.

Before Procedure

What to expect before your day of procedure.

• How will COVID-19 impact my preparation for surgery?

  One week prior to the date of your surgery you will need to begin to self-monitor at home by taking your temperature and monitoring for cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing (flu-like).  Please call the facility if you develop a fever or any flu-like symptoms. 

  Three days, and again the day prior to surgery, we will call you and ask screening questions about your general health.  At this time you will be instructed to continue to monitor yourself at home.  You should stay away from anyone who has had recent travel, had flu-like symptoms, or has tested positive for coronavirus.  Again, please notify the facility for any changes in your general health. If at any time within the 7 days prior to your procedure you develop a fever or flu-like symptoms please call the facility at (805) 569-3226 and provide us with notification.

• What tests are required prior to my procedure?

  Any pre-operative tests will be determined by your physician or anesthesiologist and communicated to you prior to the date of your surgery.

• Will I be contacted prior to my procedure by the facility?

  Yes. You may receive up to three calls. You will be contacted a few days prior to surgery by a member of your health care team. This call will include a routine health assessment, instructions for the day of surgery, and answers to any questions you may have.  You may also be contacted by someone in the facility’s business office to address financial matters such as your responsibility for co-payments and deductibles. Finally, you may also be contacted by your anesthesiologist.

• What should I bring?
  1. Please bring a photo identification and your insurance card(s). Our staff will need to verify and make copies when you check-in on the day of your surgery.
  2. Be sure to bring any medications that you may need during your stay at the facility (e.g., inhaler or insulin).
  3. Please bring a list of all drugs you are currently taking.
  4. Please bring payment of any patient responsibility (e.g. co-payment or deductible)
  5. Please do not bring rings, watches, or other valuables.
• Should I arrange a ride to the facility?

  Yes. You will not be allowed to drive after surgery. Please arrange for an adult to drive you home and for someone to be with you when you arrive.

• What may I eat and drink before procedure?

  Your physician or a pre-operative nurse will inform you of eating and drinking restrictions prior to surgery. It is very important that you follow the provided instructions.  If you do not, your surgery may be delayed or cancelled.

• Should I take my routine medications on the day of procedure?

  You will be given instructions regarding medications by your physician or a staff member. Also, as noted above, please be prepared to list all medications (including name and dose) you are taking and to bring any with you that may be needed during your stay (e.g., inhaler or insulin).

• What can I do to help ensure that I have the proper procedure on the correct site?

  Your safety is our primary concern. Your entire health care team will follow rigorous guidelines regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. National Patient Safety Goals have been developed which require your involvement too. You will be asked numerous times to confirm both the procedure you are having and the surgical site. You should take a very active role in all discussions with your physician, your anesthesia provider and our staff regarding the identification of your procedure and the correct surgical site.  In most cases, your surgeon will mark the site prior to your procedure.

• What can I do to help prevent a site infection?

  Take a shower the night before and the morning of surgery. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Wash your hair first with any shampoo.
  2. Wash all of your body using a liquid antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth for each shower.
  3. Rinse well to remove all soap.
  4. Dry your body with a clean towel.
  5. Do not use lotion, cream or powder.
  6. Do not shave or clip the area where the surgery will be done unless your physician directs you to do so.
  7. On the day of your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash hands frequently while at the facility and at home following your surgery. Also, do not hesitate to ask members of your health care team at the facility if they have washed their hands!
  8. After your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash their hands frequently.  Also, be sure you follow all instructions provided by your health care team regarding the care and cleaning of your surgical site as well as the administration of post-operative medications and bandages.
• Are there special considerations for a child having procedure?

  We realize that surgery can be frightening for you and your child. The pre-operative call with the facility nurse is a great time to arrange a tour of the facility to ease any fears you both may be experiencing. If your child would like to have a stuffed animal or security blanket for added comfort, feel free to bring these items on the day of surgery.  In the case of young children having surgery, it is best to have someone along with the driver to help care for the child on the trip home.  If you experience any health changes between your most recent visit with your physician and the date of surgery, notify your physician immediately.  Please report even minor changes, such as an elevated temperature, cough or cold.  If you cannot reach your physician, please call the facility.

• What if I think I might be pregnant?

  Please be sure to notify your physician, anesthesiologist and nurse prior to the date of surgery if you think you may be pregnant. The surgical procedure, anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing baby.

Day of Procedure

• How will COVID-19 impact me and my escort on the day of surgery?

  Masks:  For the safety of all patients and visitors, we ask that you come to the facility wearing a mask or face covering (e.g., scarf, bandana, homemade cloth mask).  If you don’t have one, we will give you one upon your arrival. 

  Building Entrance: To help improve social distancing, we have limited building access to a single, dedicated entrance, adjacent to our parking lot. When you arrive at SBSC and park, please call the registration desk at (805) 569-3226 and let the receptionist know you have arrived.  Depending upon weather conditions, you will be greeted at your vehicle (or at the side entrance) by one of our nurses.  Your nurse will ask you a few screening questions about your general health and take your temperature.  Should you have a fever, flu-like symptoms, or exposure, you may be asked to return to your vehicle where we can safely provide further instructions.  Your nurse will make sure you’re comfortable and informed.  Upon completion of the screening process, he or she will escort you into the building to complete the registration process and begin your pre-surgical care.

  Family, Friends & Drivers: For everyone’s safety, your family members, friends, drivers, and visitors must remain in their parked cars or leave the facility and await a call back.

• What will happen when I first arrive at the facility?

  When you arrive at the facility, you will be checked-in by a member of our staff. The admission process is usually very quick as we have obtained most of your information prior to your arrival. This final check allows us to verify all of your key information so we can better serve you.

• What should I wear?

  For your comfort, we encourage you to wear clothing that can be easily removed and stored. Please avoid wearing any jewelry, piercings, nail polish and cosmetics, and leave contact lenses at home or bring your lens case with you.

• What should I do with my clothes and additional belongings?

  A nurse will escort you into the pre-operative area where you will change your clothes. Your belongings will be safely stored until you are ready to go home. We recommend that you leave all valuables and additional accessories at home.

• What happens after I check-in?

  A nurse will conduct a pre-operative assessment that will include taking your vital signs and starting an IV if it is required for your procedure. The anesthesia provider will also speak with you in the pre-operative area to review all pre-operative information and discuss your anesthesia.  Our staff will keep your family and friends informed of your progress.  We understand the anxiety family and friends will have while you are having your procedure.  We will make every effort to keep them informed of your progress and when they will be able to re-join you after the procedure.

• What can I do to help ensure that I have the proper procedure on the correct site?

  Your safety is our primary concern. Your entire health care team will follow rigorous guidelines regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. National Patient Safety Goals have been developed which require your involvement too. You will be asked numerous times to confirm both the procedure you are having and the surgical site. You should take a very active role in all discussions with your physician, your anesthesia provider and our staff regarding the identification of your procedure and the correct surgical site.  In most cases, your surgeon will mark the site prior to your procedure.

• What can I do to help prevent a site infection?
  Take a shower the night before and the morning of surgery. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Wash your hair first with any shampoo.
  2. Wash all of your body using a liquid antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth for each shower.
  3. Rinse well to remove all soap.
  4. Dry your body with a clean towel.
  5. Do not use lotion, cream, or powder.
  6. Do not shave or clip the area where the surgery will be done unless your physician directs you to do so.
  7. On the day of your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash hands frequently while at the facility and at home following your surgery. Also, do not hesitate to ask members of your health care team at the facility if they have washed their hands!
  8. After your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash their hands frequently.  Also, be sure you follow all instructions provided by your health care team regarding the care and cleaning of your surgical site as well as the administration of post-operative medications and bandages.
• Will I see my physician prior to procedure?

  Most likely. The nature of most procedures will require that you and your physician confirm both the specific type of procedure you are having as well as the surgical site of that procedure.

• How long can my family stay with me prior to my procedure?

  This will depend upon a number of factors. However, we believe that familiar faces can assist in reducing your anxiety about the procedure, so please do not hesitate to inform the nurse that you would like a friend or family member to sit with you.

• Can my child keep a special blanket or stuffed animal to ease his/her fears?

  Absolutely. If your child would like to have a stuffed animal or security blanket for added comfort, feel free to bring these items on the day of surgery. Also, bring your child’s bottle or “sippy cup” for after surgery if they cannot drink from a regular cup.

• When should I arrive?

  You will receive instructions regarding arrival time during your pre-operative phone call.  It is important that you arrive at the designated time.

• What if I think I might be pregnant?

  Please be sure to notify your physician, anesthesiologist and nurse prior to the date of surgery if you think you may be pregnant. The surgical procedure, anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing baby.

• Can I smoke?

  No. We advise against smoking on the day of your procedure. Smoking may interfere with the anesthesia and frequently produces nausea during the recovery period.

Anesthesia

• Are there different kinds of sedation or anesthesia?

  Yes. There are five different categories of sedation and anesthesia: Conscious Sedation, General, Regional, Monitored Anesthesia Care and Local Anesthesia. Regardless of the type of sedation or anesthesia that you receive, special anesthetic agents and techniques are used to provide a safe and speedy recovery. If there are alternative choices available for your surgery, and often there are, your physician or anesthesia provider will discuss them with you before surgery.

• May I request the type of anesthesia I will receive?

  Depending on the type of surgery, there may be anesthetic options. Your physician or anesthesia provider will discuss available options with you after reviewing your medical history.

• Will I receive any sedatives before procedure?

  Together, you, your surgeon and your anesthesia provider will develop an anesthetic care plan. This plan may include preoperative sedation and other medications if necessary.

• What are the risks of anesthesia?

  All surgical procedures and all anesthetics have risks. These risks are dependent upon many factors, including the type of surgery and the medical condition of the patient. Your anesthesiologist will assess you preoperatively and every precaution will be taken to minimize your risk. We routinely see minor symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, tiredness, headache, muscle aches and pain, most of which are easily treated.  Please feel free to discuss any questions with your anesthesia provider.

• Will I be billed separately by the anesthesiologist?

  Yes. You will receive a separate bill from your anesthesia provider if anesthesia was administered.

• Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to procedure?

  It is important to refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to surgery in order to prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents (complication related to vomiting) during your surgery. This complication may be very serious. Specific instructions based on national safety standards will be provided to you prior to your procedure. It is very important that you follow the provided instructions.  If you do not, your surgery may be delayed or cancelled.

After Procedure

• How will COVID-19 impact me after my surgery?

  Our nursing team will contact your family, friend or driver upon completion of your recovery, so they may return to the facility and prepare to greet you upon discharge.  At the completion of your recovery, your nurse will safely escort you to your car, and provide your family, friend or driver unique verbal and written discharge instructions for your continued recovery and well-being.

• What will happen if I am not able to go home?
  Admissions to a hospital from a surgery center happen occasionally. In certain circumstances, your physician or anesthesiologist may determine that you need to be transferred to a hospital for additional post operative care.
• What if I am not feeling well once I get home?

  If you are in serious pain, or exhibit warning symptoms described in your discharge instructions, please call your physician, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

• What can I eat when I get home?

  Your surgeon may have specific recommendations for your post operative diet. We generally suggest that you eat lightly after surgery, and strongly encourage you to drink plenty of fluids. You should avoid alcoholic beverages.

• What can I do to help prevent a post operative infection?
  
  

  In addition to following the recommendations below, follow your post operative instructions carefully and notify your physician if you have any signs or symptoms which concern you.

  Take a shower the night before and the morning of surgery. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Wash your hair first with any shampoo.
  2. Wash all of your body using a liquid antibacterial soap and a clean washcloth for each shower.
  3. Rinse well to remove all soap.
  4. Dry your body with a clean towel.
  5. Do not use lotion, cream or powder.
  6. Do not shave or clip the area where the surgery will be done unless your physician directs you to do so.
  7. On the day of your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash hands frequently while at the facility and at home following your surgery. Also, do not hesitate to ask members of your health care team at the facility if they have washed their hands!
  8. After your procedure make sure you, your family and any other caregivers wash their hands frequently.  Also, be sure you follow all instructions provided by your health care team regarding the care and cleaning of your surgical site as well as the administration of post-operative medications and bandages.
• How will my pain be managed?

  The management of your pain is of great importance to us. We will be assessing your level of pain from the time of admission until you receive our post operative call at home. During your stay at the facility, you will be repeatedly asked to rate your pain using a numerical scale (1-10), or for children, the "Faces Pain Scale" (shown below). 

  We will often use a combination of different modalities to help make you comfortable - choosing from oral medications, intravenous medications, nerve blocks, injection of local anesthetic during the surgery, etc. Prior to the surgery, the management of your pain should be discussed with both your anesthesiologist and surgeon. Please feel free to bring up any concerns or fears you may have. Remember that information on pain management gives you the appropriate expectations and hence a smoother, more comfortable recovery. It is important to follow instructions regarding your post operative pain medication closely.  Many pain medications take 20 to 30 minutes to begin to work.  For best results, the pain medication should be taken before the pain becomes too strong.

• Can my family be with me after procedure?

  Yes. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area. A nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are comfortable as the anesthesia begins to wear off. Once you are awake and alert, your family will be invited back to the recovery area. Special arrangements are made for children having surgery.

• May I drive home?

  No. Patients will not be allowed to drive after a procedure and must make necessary transportation arrangements.  If you plan to walk or take public transportation from our facility after a procedure, please make sure you are accompanied by a responsible adult.

• Should I continue my usual medications after procedure?

  Most patients should continue their usual medications after surgery. Patients who have diabetes and those patients on blood thinners may require some adjustment of their medications. These instructions will be clarified with you before you leave the facility. If you have any questions, please call your surgeon or primary care physician.

• How long will I stay after my procedure?
  The amount of recovery time varies from patient to patient. After your procedure, a nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are alert and stable. You will be sent home as soon as your health care team feels it is safe to discharge you from the facility.