Post-Surgery

Mount Nittany Surgical Center requires that patients have a responsible adult with them the day of surgery. This person should remain in the waiting room area during the surgery or be available by phone. This person will be responsible for the patient's transportation home from the Surgical Center. The center also recommends that a caregiver stay with the patient for the remainder of the day following surgery.

Following is a list of responsibilities to help prepare caregivers for patients undergoing same-day surgery:

• Have a supply of clear liquids at home for after surgery, such as: ginger ale, apple juice, Gatorade, popsicles, etc.
• Family members, including children, are permitted to accompany the patient in the pre-operative area as the patient is prepared for surgery. A nurse will come get the responsible adult once the patient awakes in the post-operative recovery area. Family members are permitted to accompany the patient in the post-operative area, as well.
• A nurse will give the patient and their responsible adult detailed verbal and written discharge instructions as ordered by the surgeon, and will answer any questions.
• Fill any prescriptions given by the surgeon and follow the discharge instructions on the administering of the medication (if applicable).
• A responsible adult is required to drive the patient home following surgery. Public transportation, including taxicabs, is not permitted following surgery. You might want to use a blanket and pillow to make the patient comfortable if traveling a distance, but be sure not to interfere with safety belts.
• Give the patient clear liquids and light meals following surgery (unless otherwise indicated in the discharge instructions). Avoid heavy, greasy meals, especially fast food.
• Put discharge instructions on the refrigerator or by the telephone to keep the surgeon's instructions close at hand for easy reference and in case of emergency.
• If any problems should arise, call the Surgical Center immediately.