Preparing For Surgery

Prior to your surgery

By this time you should be clear about the nature of, the reason for and the most likely outcome of your surgery.  You should also be aware of the alternative forms of treatment and  the possible risks and benefits of the anticipated surgery. You should ask Dr. George questions about any of the foregoing items if you are not clear.

Prior to your surgery it will be necessary to perform several tests to be sure that you are in the best possible health. This means that Dr. George will provide the hospital with your records. He will also order laboratory tests and a chest x-ray and an EKG depending on your age and health status. Be sure that you have informed us of allergies to medication, your past surgery the medical problems for which you are being treated and the dosage of all medication both prescribed and over the counter.

At times, it may be necessary to request a medical statement from your primary care or specialist physician regarding the status of your medical problem(s) and the safety of performing the anticipated surgery. Laboratory tests may be performed by your primary care physician or may be scheduled either in a laboratory or at the admission testing center at the Washington Hospital Center, 202-877-7169.You must make arrangements for a responsible adult to transport you to and from the hospital and to be available to assist you after surgery.
 

Day of Surgery

Remember that your surgery is scheduled for: 
______________________________________
      Date                               Time

You must not eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your surgery.

You must report to the Admission Testing Center, room A-101 at the Washington Hospital Center two hours before the scheduled time so that all records can be rechecked and final preparations made for your surgery.

You should inform Dr. George of all medication that you regularly take and confirm whether it is necessary and/or safe to take it on the morning of surgery. Remember to have available ID and insurance information. 

Your surgery will be performed either on an out-patient basis, short stay (overnight) or two nights. On rare occasions, surgery originally planned as out-patient may  be extended and admission to the hospital may become necessary. If for any reason you change your mind or cannot get to the hospital as required, you should notify us immediately by calling the office at 202-291-0039 or the answering service at 703-894-2113.
 

After Surgery

Following surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery room and from there you will be sent home or admitted to a unit at the hospital. Upon discharge, you will receive written instructions regarding activity, medication and follow up care.

Remember that you must have arrangements in place for a responsible adult to transport you to and from the hospital and to assist you after surgery.

You should read your post-operative instructions carefully and comply with them. The usual course following surgery is to progressively feel better. If you are feeling worse, you should notify us by calling the office at 202-291-0039 or the answering service at 703-894-2113.
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John P.A. George MD
Gynecologic  Endoscopy
6323 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington DC 20011
Tel. 202-291-0039

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