Preparing for Surgery

Before Surgery

A nurse will contact the patient to conduct an intake phone interview to gather overall medical history and provide information on pre-operative testing (e.g. history physical, lab testing, x-rays, pregnancy test, etc.). Detailed list of medications will be reviewed and modified as needed. Patients need to be fasting after midnight the night before. 

Day of Surgery

 Patients will have a designated patient care coordinator that will assist patients in navigating through registration, obtaining ID bracelet, and directing to correct location of surgery. Patients are requested to wear loose, casual and comfortable clothing. There will be lockers available for patients to keep a small bag with belongings

·    Visitors are able to wait for patients in our designated waiting area in the lobby. There will be refreshments and snacks available

·    Parking is available in the garage directly under the main building. DCHUX will validate parking fees for patients on day of surgery 

·    Pharmacy services are available through independent facility on lobby floor

After Surgery

 Patients will be transferred to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for care. The Aldrete scoring system will be utilized to determine if a patient is cleared to be discharged to go home. DCHUX will contact designated responsible adult to pick up patients for home transportation. Post-operative instructions will be provided to patients before going home. Patient’s designated patient care coordinators will contact the patient the day after surgery to follow up. For any problems or concerns patients can contact (202) 516- 4608 or (202) 427-3236. If patients experience any emergencies they are advised to please call 911.