FAQ | Advanced Surgery Center of Central Iowa

Frequently
Asked Questions

What do I need to bring?

Please bring your insurance cards, photo ID, most current medication list including over the counter medications you take, advance directives and power of attorney for health care. Please leave all jewelry and valuables at home. We do our best to safeguard your belongings, but they are best secured at home.

What if I need to cancel/reschedule surgery?

As soon as you are aware of the need to cancel or reschedule, please call your surgeon's office.

What if I do not have anyone to stay with me for the first 24 hours?

Your surgery may be canceled until these arrangements can be made. If you are having a procedure with local anesthetic you are not required to have someone stay with you.

Why can’t I eat before surgery?

General anesthesia is the safest when given on an empty stomach. Following the diet guidelines is very important. Surgery is likely to be canceled or postponed if the instructions are not followed.

What medications do I take prior to surgery?

The nurse will review your medications during your pre-op call and give you specific instructions on medications that should be taken the morning of surgery with a small sip of water. Again, NO food should be taken the morning of surgery.

Why don’t I know the time of my surgery until the day before surgery?

The surgery schedule is constantly changing. Children and patients who are diabetic are scheduled earlier in the day. The day prior to surgery is the most accurate time.

How long will I be at the Surgery Center?

Most people are at the Surgery center for about 3-4 hours the day of their surgery. However, each procedure varies in time and circumstances.

When can I drive?

The Surgery center requires that someone must escort every patient home who has had anesthesia and/or sedation. The effects of the drugs may take 24 hours to disappear and it is advised that patients that have been administered these drugs have someone with them until the drowsiness is gone. Your surgeon will let you know when you are allowed to drive.

Can family visit before surgery?

How will my pain be controlled?

The nurses will provide you with pain and/or nausea medication (expect to have some pain). Prescriptions that the physician has ordered will be sent to your pharmacy on file.

How long will I be in recovery?

Time spent in recovery varies depending on the surgery. You may be in recovery for up to or more than an hour. All patients must meet pre-established criteria before they are discharged. Please keep in mind that no patient feels completely recovered at the time of discharge. Home recovery is part of the ambulatory surgery process. IT IS NOT UNUSUAL FOR YOU TO HAVE SOME DISCOMFORT AND DROWSINESS UPON LEAVING.

Will my surgeon talk to me after surgery?

Your surgeon will speak with you before surgery. After surgery, your surgeon will speak with your support person.

When can I eat?

As soon as you wake in recovery you will be allowed liquids and and give a choice of a small snack (crackers, applesauce or pudding). Once you get home, start with a simple, bland diet and advance as tolerated. Avoid spicy, greasy, and fried foods as your first meal.

How long will I be off work and or when can I go back to work?

Your doctor will let you know after surgery. Your time away from work will depend on the type of work you do and the type of surgery that you have had.

When can I shower?

Your surgeon will indicate on your discharge instructions when you can remove your dressing and shower.

What if I have questions after I return home?

Before you leave a nurse will go over your discharge instructions with you and the responsible adult that is going to be with you. Questions after surgery can be directed to your surgeon's office or the ASCCI staff at 515-537-1221.A nurse will call you the following business day to check on you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently
Asked Questions