About Your Procedure

Click on the Frequently Asked Questions below to learn about your procedure.

The questions below may help you for before, during, and after your procedure.

Before Procedure

What to expect before your day of procedure.

• What should I bring?
  1. Please bring a photo identification and your insurance card(s). Our staff will need to verify and make copies when you check-in on the day of your procedure.
  2. Be sure to bring any medications that you may need during your stay at the facility (e.g., inhaler or insulin).
  3. Please bring a list of all drugs you are currently taking.
  4. Please bring payment of any patient responsibility (e.g. co-payment or deductible)
  5. Please do not bring jewelry or other valuables.
• Should I arrange a ride to the facility?

  Yes. You will not be allowed to drive after your procedure. Please arrange for an adult to drive you home and for someone to be with you when you arrive. A BUS, TAXI OR UBER IS NOT ACCEPTABLE UNLESS YOU ARE ACCOMPANIED BY A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND.

• What may I eat and drink before procedure?

  No water or fluid 4 hours prior to your procedure.  Please see Patient tab (Our Services) for specific instructions.

• Should I take my routine medications on the day of procedure?

  You will be given instructions regarding medications by your physician or a staff member. Also, as noted above, please be prepared to list all medications (including name and dose) you are taking and to bring any with you that may be needed during your stay (e.g., inhaler or insulin).

• What can I do to help ensure that I have the proper procedure on the correct site?

  Your safety is our primary concern. Your entire health care team will follow rigorous guidelines regarding site identification and procedure confirmation. National Patient Safety Goals have been developed which require your involvement too. You will be asked numerous times your name, date of birth and to confirm the procedure you are having.

• What if I think I might be pregnant?

  Please be sure to notify your physician, anesthesiologist and nurse prior to the date of surgery if you think you may be pregnant. The anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing baby.

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Day of Procedure

• What will happen when I first arrive at the facility?

  When you arrive at the facility, you will be checked-in by a member of our staff. The admission process is usually very quick as we have obtained most of your information prior to your arrival. This final check allows us to verify all of your key information so we can better serve you.

• What should I wear?

  For your comfort, we encourage you to wear clothing that can be easily removed and stored. Please avoid wearing any jewelry, piercings, nail polish and cosmetics.  If you are able to nap with contact lens in you may leave them in, otherwise please bring your lens case with you.

• What should I do with my clothes and additional belongings?

  A nurse will provide you with a bag to place your belongings in.   Your belongings will be safely stored under your bed. We recommend that you leave all valuables and additional accessories at home.

• What happens after I check-in?

  A nurse will conduct a pre-operative assessment that will include taking your vital signs and starting an IV, if it is required for your procedure. If there is an anesthesia provider for your procedure they will also speak with you in the pre-operative area to review all pre-operative information and discuss your anesthesia.    We understand the anxiety family and friends will have while you are having your procedure.  We will make every effort to keep them informed of your progress. They will be asked to be with you as you dress and to hear the instructions.

• When should I arrive?

  You will receive instructions regarding arrival time during your pre-operative phone call.  It is important that you arrive at the designated time.

• What if I think I might be pregnant?

  Please be sure to notify your physician, anesthesiologist and nurse prior to the date of surgery if you think you may be pregnant. The surgical procedure, anesthesia and medications may be harmful to a developing baby.

• Can I smoke?

  No. We advise against smoking on the day of your procedure. Smoking may interfere with the anesthesia and frequently produces nausea during the recovery period.

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Anesthesia

• Are there different kinds of sedation or anesthesia?

  Conscious Sedation is the most frequently used anesthesia for all procedures.  However your physician may have discussed with you the need to have an Anesthesia Provider for your procedure to administer Monitored Anesthesia Care.

• May I request the type of anesthesia I will receive?

  Your physician will discuss these options with you during your pre-procedure office visit.

• What are the risks of anesthesia?

  All procedures and all anesthetics have risks. These risks are dependent upon many factors, including the type of procedure and the medical condition of the patient. We sometimes see minor symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, tiredness, headache,  and pain, most of which are easily treated.  Please feel free to discuss any questions with your nurse, anesthesia provider or Gastroenterologist.

• Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to procedure?

  It is important to refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to Procedure in order to prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents (complication related to vomiting) during your surgery. This complication may be very serious. Specific instructions based on national safety standards will be provided to you prior to your procedure. It is very important that you follow the provided instructions.  If you do not, your procedure may be delayed or cancelled.

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After Procedure

• What if I am not feeling well once I get home?

  If you are in serious pain, or exhibit warning symptoms described in your discharge instructions, please call your physician, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

• What can I eat when I get home?

  You usually resume a regular diet.  You will be given instructions prior to your discharge if there are any restrictions.   We generally suggest that you eat lightly for your first meal.  We strongly encourage you to drink plenty of fluids. You should avoid alcoholic beverages until the next day.

• How many bills should I expect to receive?

  You may receive a bill from the Center for the unpaid balance.  You will also receive a bill from your Gastroenterologist.  In addition you may receive a bill from an Anesthesia if applicable as well as a Pathology bill if specimens are obtained. 

• May I drive home?

  No. Patients will not be allowed to drive after a procedure and must make necessary transportation arrangements.  If you plan to walk or take public transportation from our facility after a procedure, please make sure you are accompanied by a responsible adult.

• Should I continue my usual medications after procedure?

  Most patients should continue their usual medications after their procedure. Patients who have diabetes and those patients on blood thinners may require some adjustment of their medications. These instructions will be clarified with you before you leave the facility. If you have any questions, please call your Gastroenterologist or primary care physician.

• How long will I stay after my procedure?

  Usually ½ hour is sufficient for recovering from your sedation, however the amount of recovery time varies from patient to patient. After your procedure, a nurse will monitor your vital signs and make sure you are alert and stable. You will be sent home as soon as your health care team feels it is safe to discharge you from the facility.