CHH Surgery Center FAQs

Do I need to visit the CHHSC before my surgery date?

Some patients may choose to come to the Surgery Center before their surgery date to complete paperwork or make payments. We strongly recommend that you complete all pre-operative documentation before the day of surgery.

What if I cannot make my appointment?

Please notify the surgeon and the Cabell Huntington Hospital Surgery Center at 304.523.1885 as early as possible if you cannot make your scheduled appointment. Early notification can help us better accommodate you and other patients.

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable clothing. Button-down shirts or blouses and sweat pants or pants with an elastic waistband are best. Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put on. If you wear contact lenses, please bringing your glasses, contact solution and contacts case. And please? no make-up and no jewelry, including body-piercing jewelry.

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

If you eat and/or drink prior to surgery, you increase your risk of aspirating or breathing in stomach contents during your surgery, which is a very serious complication. Our policies as to specific times before surgery when you must refrain from eating and/or drinking are all based on safety standards.

Should I take my usual daily medication(s)?

During your pre-operative phone call, the nurse will review your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicine, vitamins and supplements, and provide you with instructions about which medications to continue taking and which ones to stop.

Who may accompany me?

You are welcome to bring two people with you to the Surgery Center. They will be allowed to be in pre-op with you before surgery and may sit with you after the surgery if you so choose. Please do not bring young children to the Surgery Center as visitors or guests.

Will I receive sedation before going into the operating room?

Each patient's care is individualized. If your pre-operative assessment indicates that you should receive sedation, then it will be provided by the anesthesia team.

Should I bathe and wash my hair before leaving home?

Yes. You can comfortably take a shower, bathe, brush your teeth, etc. but DO NOT SWALLOW WATER or any other liquids. Please do not use make up, hair spray, nail polish or toiletries. These may interfere with the anesthesia monitoring and possibly hide clinical signs from the anesthesiologist.

What should I do if I am not feeling well?

If you are not feeling well, please contact your surgeon immediately. During normal business hours, you can call the Surgery Center for advice. The specific details of your illness are needed in order to decide how to proceed. Please do not delay in contacting your surgeon or the CHHSC.

What should I do if I believe I am pregnant?

It is very important for us to be aware of this possibility. Only essential surgery is done on pregnant patients. If there is any doubt please contact us immediately.

May I drive home?

Any patient receiving anesthesia should not drive until the next day. Please make arrangements for a ride home and to be cared for by a responsible adult when you arrive home. Patients will not be allowed to drive, walk or take public transportation after sedation or anesthesia.