Preparing For Your Visit FAQ

How do I pre-register for surgery?

We strongly encourage you to pre-register online. This will make your pre-admission testing visit more efficient.

How do I contact someone about my online registration? 

 If you have a question about your online registration or the admissions process please call the Admissions Department of the hospital you are attending.

Baptist Medical Center
Admissions
(210) 297-8618

Northeast Baptist Hospital
Admissions
(210) 297-2629

North Central Baptist Hospital
Admissions
(210) 297-4915

Southeast Baptist Hospital
Admissions
(210) 297-3610

St. Luke's Baptist Hospital
Admissions
(210) 297-5610

Do I need to complete additional paperwork when I arrive at the hospital?

Yes, upon arriving at the hospital admissions department you will be asked to complete more forms. Please see the list, below, of the some of the forms you may be asked to complete

• Authorization to Release Protected Health Information During This Admission
• Consent for Treatment and Conditions For Admission
• Acknowledgement of Receipt of Notice of Privacy Practices

Do I need pre-testing done prior to my scheduled surgery date?

You are encouraged to get Pre-Admission Testing done, 2-10 days BEFORE your surgery. Your physician will order specific tests based on the procedure, your age and your medical condition. These tests usually include blood test, urine test, EKG and/or chest X-ray if your doctor requires them. This will help minimize any delays or postponements. Check with your doctor to see if this applies to you.

What do I need to bring to my pre-admission testing visit?

• Insurance information, including your insurance card and valid picture identification Form of payment to cover any co-pays and/or deductibles.
• Lab and/or X-ray results done recently at another facility
• Any Advance Directive (Living Will, Power of Attorney etc.)

Where do I check in?

This will depend on which Baptist Health System hospital you are being admitted to and the reason why you are coming to the hospital. Please follow your doctor's admission/check-in instructions.

How should I prepare for my visit?

If you are staying overnight pack your sleepwear, footwear and other personal items you may need. Leave any valuables such as jewelry, purses, cell phones, wallets, cash and credit cards at home.

Know your co-pays, deductibles and co-insurances. You should check with your health insurance company to understand the portion you will need to pay to your healthcare providers.

How do I get directions to the hospital?

Visit Maps & Directions for more information.

Preparing for Your Surgery

Do I need to stop taking any of my medication in preparation for surgery?

If you are taking any aspirin products, blood thinners (such as Coumadin, Lovenox, Plavix, Advil, Motrin, or Aleve), tell your physician, as these may need to be stopped before your surgery.

What if I become ill?

If you develop a cold, persistent cough, sore throat, fever or other illnesses within two days of surgery, please notify your physician.

What food and drink restrictions must I follow in preparation for surgery?

Eat a light dinner the evening before your surgery and do not drink alcoholic beverages. DO NOT eat or drink anything including water, chewing gum and mints after midnight the night before your surgery, or as instructed by your physician.

Will I be able to drive home after surgery?

Make arrangements to get a ride home after your surgery with a responsible adult. Buses and taxis are NOT acceptable. You are not allowed to drive the day of surgery or until you have clearance from your doctor.

Preparing for Your Child’s Surgery

What do I need to bring the day of my child’s surgery?

• Insurance information, including your insurance card and a valid I.D
• Any laboratory tests and/or X-rays you obtained from another facility
• If you are not the parents of the patient, you must bring documentation of legal guardianship
• Any Advance Directive (Living Will, Power of Attorney etc.)

What if my child becomes ill with a simple cold?

• A child who has nasal congestion, sneezing, or a dry cough may undergo surgery safely in nearly all cases. However, the final decision lies with the anesthesiologist. As a general rule, a child who is too ill to go to school is likely to benefit from delaying surgery.
• If your child has a fever or productive cough, or has been exposed to chickenpox, measles, or mums please call our office so we can assist you with rescheduling.

What food and drink restrictions must my child follow in preparation for surgery?

• No solid food, dairy products, candy, or gum after midnight the night before surgery.
• Clear fluids may be given up until two hours prior to surgery (clear fluids include water, Pedialyte, Gatorade, ginger-ale, Sprite, apple juice, Kool-Aide, Jell-O, and popsicles without fruit pieces).
• Breast milk is permitted up to 4 hours prior to surgery, but no whole milk of any kind.
• Formula is permitted up to 6 hours before surgery

The Day of Surgery

What do I need to bring the day of surgery?

• Bring a complete list of all medications you are taking, including over the counter medications and herbal supplements. You may take any required medications the day of surgery as advised by your physician. Always take your blood pressure medicine with a small sip of water, unless your physician instructs you otherwise.
• Bring a case for glasses, contacts, and/or dentures.
• Please bring your insurance card, valid I.D., and form of payment.
• Please bring a copy of your Advance Directives. If you do not have one, we will offer this service to you.

If you are staying overnight, please bring any items that will make your stay comfortable, including any personal hygiene items you may need.

When should I arrive to the hospital the day of surgery?

Please arrive two hours before your scheduled procedure, unless your physician instructs you otherwise.

Am I permitted to bathe, brush my teeth, and wear make-up and body piercings?

You may bathe or shower (use antibacterial soap) and brush your teeth before coming to the hospital. It is advised that you limit make-up and remove all body piercing and jewelry.

What happens after surgery? Will I be allowed to see friends and loved ones?

After surgery, the time you spend in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) will depend on the type of procedure and your response to the anesthesia. Visitors will be restricted at this time, but your nurse will keep them informed.

Who do I contact if I need to cancel my surgery?

If you need to cancel surgery please notify your physician and the hospital as soon as possible.