UF Health Surgical Center – The Oaks: Before Your Visit

Before Surgery Information

Preoperative evaluations

To ensure the safest surgical experience possible, we require that all patients undergo a preoperative evaluation. Your surgeon’s office staff will schedule a time for your preoperative evaluation. This process will take approximately 1 and 1/2 hours. This evaluation may include lab tests and an EKG. You will also be assessed by an anesthesiologist. If you have had lab tests within the past four weeks or an EKG, cardiac catheterization or stress test in the past six to 12 months, you should obtain a copy of the results and bring them with you. Additional time may be required depending on the number of tests needed.

Additional Information

• If you require anesthesia and/or sedation for your surgery, you will need to make arrangements in advance to have someone available to drive or escort you home and provide postoperative care for at least 24 hours after surgery. Unfortunately if you arrive for surgery without these plans in place, your procedure will be cancelled.
• Do not eat or drink after midnight unless your surgeon or anesthesiologist instructs you otherwise. If your surgery is scheduled after 1 p.m., consult one of our nurses for specific instructions.
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol after midnight.
• Discuss taking any medications on the day of your surgery with your surgeon or anesthesiologist.
• A parent or legal guardian of minor patients must stay in our facility during the entire procedure.
• Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of illness before the date of your surgery.
• If you wear contacts or glasses, bring a case to put them in.
• If you require a CPAP machine, oxygen or inhaler, please bring it with you.
• Remove all jewelry, nail polish, makeup and other valuables before arriving.
• If you are having surgery on the arm or leg, please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that will easily fit over your surgical dressing. Only wear cotton undergarments. A gown will be provided for use while you are at the surgical center.
• If your procedure requires the use of a sling or crutches afterwards, and you already have these items, bring them with you.
• If you are traveling out of the immediate area to go home, bring a pillow and a blanket to make your ride more comfortable.

After Surgery

• Your surgeon will authorize your discharge from UF Health Surgical Center — The Oaks. Below are some guidelines to follow after your surgery
• Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet, rest and medications
• Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, make important decisions or sign any important papers for at least 24 hours following a surgical procedure.
• If you have any difficulties after surgery, call your physician’s office.
• A nurse will contact you within 72 hours after surgery to check on your progress.
• If you need help due to a disability, please call 352.733.5400 or 1.800.372.7637.