Recovery in the Surgical Facility

What can I expect in the Recovery Room?

After surgery, you will be taken to the Recovery Room or post-anesthesia care unit. For about the first 30 minutes, you will be monitored closely by specially trained PACU nurses. During this period, you may be given extra oxygen and your breathing and heart functions will be observed closely. Medication for pain will be given as necessary. You will then be moved to a transition area where you will be able to sit upright in a reclining chair. Family or friends may be allowed to be with you here. You will be offered something to drink and you will be assisted in getting up. An anesthesiologist is available to supervise and provide care as needed for your safe recovery.

Will I experience any side effects?

The side effects and discomfort you experience will depend on a number of factors, especially the type of surgery. We are usually able to relieve pain promptly with medicines by mouth or injection or by numbing the area around the incision. Your discomfort should be tolerable, but do not expect to be totally pain-free. Acceptable comfort, however, is essential for discharge so do not hesitate to express your needs with the nurses and doctors.

Nausea or vomiting is a problem with which most patients are concerned. When it occurs, it may be related to either anesthesia or the type of surgical procedure. Although less of a problem today because of improved anesthetic agents and techniques, these side effects continue to occur for some patients. Medications to treat nausea and vomiting will be given if needed.

When will I be able to go home?

Certainly, prompt discharge to home is the expectation for most patients in the ambulatory setting, however, this will depend on the type of surgery and the anesthesia used. Most patients are ready to go home within about 1-4 hours after surgery. Your anesthesiologist or surgeon will be able to give you a more specific time estimate. Occasionally, it is necessary to stay overnight. This is usually known in advance and plans made, however, should an unexpected stay become medically necessary, the ambulatory surgical facility has arrangements in place with the hospital to meet these needs.

Will I receive Instruction before I leave?

Both written and verbal instructions will be given. You will receive both general instructions and instructions that apply specifically to your surgery. You will be given a telephone contact to call if you have any concerns after you go home.

In general, for 24 hours after your anesthesia: