Patient Resources
Patient Resources
Preparing for Surgery at Galena Surgical Center
Our goal is to make every patient feel informed and supported before, during, and after their procedure. Below you’ll find important instructions and resources to help you prepare for surgery, know what to expect the day of, and recover safely at home.
Pre-Surgical Preparation
- No solid food after midnight before surgery.
- Clear liquids (water, Gatorade) may be taken up to 4 hours prior to check-in.
- Stay well-hydrated the day before surgery.
- Stop all weight-loss medications, supplements, aspirin, NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve, Naproxen, etc.), vitamins, and herbal supplements one week prior, unless directed otherwise.
- Tylenol/acetaminophen is generally safe unless told otherwise.
- If you take a blood thinner, consult your prescribing doctor or surgeon for instructions.
- Do not take diabetes medications the morning of surgery unless otherwise directed.
- Do not take certain blood pressure medications (ending in “-rtan” or “-pril”) unless instructed by your surgeon.
- Shower with antibacterial soap the night before and morning of surgery.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Do not wear makeup, lotion, powder, creams, or jewelry.
Under 10 years old
- No solid food 8 hours prior to check-in.
- Water, Pedialyte, and Gatorade allowed up to 2 hours prior.
- Parent/guardian must remain in the building for the entire visit.
- Bring photo ID and insurance information.
- Remove all jewelry.
10 years and older
- No solid food after midnight before surgery.
- Water, Pedialyte, or Gatorade allowed up to 4 hours prior.
- Parent/guardian must stay in the building the entire time.
- Bring photo ID and insurance information.
- Remove all jewelry.
Day of Surgery
- Arrive 1 hour prior to your scheduled surgery time.
- A registered nurse will guide you to the pre-op area and answer questions.
- Recovery times vary from 20 minutes to 4 hours, depending on your procedure.
- Patients are discharged via the west entrance; parking is available nearby.
- A responsible adult must drive you home. For inclement weather, drivers may need to stay on-site.
Post-Surgical Recovery
- Patients move to a recovery room immediately after surgery.
- A nurse will monitor your progress and review discharge instructions before you leave.
- One visitor may join you in recovery once you are awake.
- Follow all diet, medication, and activity instructions provided at discharge.
- Rest: avoid driving, operating machinery, or signing legal documents for at least 24 hours.
- Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours, or while taking pain medications.
- Have a responsible adult stay with you for the first 24 hours.
- Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience complications.
- A nurse from Galena Surgical Center will call you the next business day to check on your recovery.