Southern New Mexico Surgery Center - Post Surgery Instructions

Post Surgery Instructions

Following Surgery | Instructions

Following Your Surgery
When surgery is completed, you will be taken to the recovery room. The length of time you will need to rest before leaving will depend on the nature of your surgery and your recovery from anesthesia.

We permit a family member or friend to join you in our recovery room when possible. In order to prevent overcrowding we must limit visitors to one person at peak times. Therefore we ask that you not bring children or others who cannot remain unattended in the waiting room.

We want to be particularly responsive to the needs of children and want you to understand that they will be cared for by our recovery room nurses. Parents will be encouraged to come into the recovery room to be with the child as soon as possible.

Before You Leave
Please be certain you understand your physician's instructions. You will receive instruction from our nurses regarding medication, diet, and rest requirements. The day of surgery and perhaps at the time of discharge, you may feel sleepy, tired and dizzy. Our advice is to go home and rest for the remainder of the day. For your own safety, it is important that you do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol or make any important decisions for at least 24 hours after leaving the Southern New Mexico Surgery Center.

At Home
You should plan to have a responsible adult stay with you the night after surgery. If you experience difficulties or complications once you return home, please contact your surgeon immediately. If you cannot reach your surgeon and your condition requires immediate attention, you must call 911 or be driven to the nearest emergency department. You may also call the staff at the Southern New Mexico Surgery Center any time between 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at 575.437.0890.

Patient Satisfaction
A Southern New Mexico Surgery Center staff member will attempt to contact you after surgery to check on your progress. You will also receive a patient satisfaction survey form that will help us to continuously improve our care in response to your suggestions. If you have provided us with your email address, you may be contacted by email regarding completion of this form on-line. We appreciate your input!

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