Frequently Asked Questions
Before Surgery FAQS
Yes, and we strongly recommend it. Completing your registration in advance allows us to provide you with a smoother, faster experience. You may do so at any time through our online registration platform, available 24 hours a day.
Patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement surgery must attend a preoperative preparation program at the facility.
All other patients only need to have their medical history updated. In some cases, the anesthesia department may request a prior appointment to evaluate your health condition before surgery. If this occurs, our team will notify you in advance.
Some patients may also require additional tests, such as blood tests, EKG, X-rays, or clearance from their primary care physician. Your surgeon will tell you which tests are needed and where to have them done.
Families who wish to do so may schedule a preoperative visit with their children at Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center, although this visit is optional. The most advisable step at this stage is to complete your medical history.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. If you cannot attend your appointment on the scheduled day, please call Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center at (954) 248-2250 or contact your surgeon as soon as possible.
Your advance notice helps us adjust the schedule and ensure more efficient care for you and other patients.
For your comfort and safety, we suggest wearing loose and practical clothing, such as a button-down shirt or blouse. Choose comfortable, closed shoes that fit well. For safety, avoid sandals, flip-flops, or heels. Leave your jewelry and piercings at home, as they cannot be worn during the procedure.
If you wear contact lenses, we recommend coming with glasses. If you need to keep your contacts, bring your solution and case to store them.
We also ask that you do not wear makeup, as it may make it difficult to observe your skin and other vital signs during surgery.
It is imperative not to eat or drink anything before your procedure to avoid the risk of aspirating stomach contents during surgery. This complication can be serious, so you must follow our instructions carefully. Nausea or vomiting that some people experience after surgery is not related to these dietary restrictions.
At Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center, we follow precise medical policies regarding the time you must stop eating and drinking before the procedure, always based on safety standards. The fasting period is kept as short as possible but within safe limits. Fasting longer than instructed does not improve safety and may cause dehydration or discomfort.
Children have different fasting times than adults. Please refer to the section for children and adults with special needs.
Although they may seem harmless, some herbal remedies and natural products can cause unwanted effects during surgery, such as altering blood clotting or interfering with anesthetics.
For your safety, we recommend stopping them two weeks before the procedure. Be sure to mention them during your medical evaluation so our team can take them into account in your surgical planning.
Yes. The staff at Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center will contact each patient before surgery to obtain relevant medical information and provide preoperative guidance. A nurse will give you preoperative instructions during that call.
If you have additional questions, you may call us directly at (954) 248-2250 for assistance.
If you don’t feel well, contact your surgeon immediately. During office hours, you can also call us at (954) 248-2250 for guidance. Some surgeries are safer if postponed when the patient is sick or shows symptoms. Therefore, it is important to inform us about your health condition promptly so we can make the best decision.
Do not worry. For most procedures, menstruation does not pose any inconvenience. Only certain specific gynecological treatments might be affected. If you have questions, our team is available at (954) 248-2250 to guide you.
If there is a possibility of pregnancy, please inform us immediately, as we only perform essential surgical procedures on pregnant patients. If you have any doubts or suspicions, contact us as soon as possible.
At Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center, we will do everything possible to meet any special needs you may have. We recommend calling us in advance so we can prepare for your visit and ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Do not hesitate to share any requests or details that could make your day easier.
In many procedures, there is more than one anesthesia option. Your anesthesiologist will review your medical history and explain the available alternatives, as well as the benefits of each. We will always take your preferences and comfort level into account, working together to create a safe and personalized anesthesia plan.
Surgery Day FAQS
Each patient is different, so our team will give you personalized instructions about which medications to take or stop before your procedure. In general, diabetes medications are paused since you will not be eating before surgery. Our medical staff will monitor your blood sugar level. Some drugs, such as blood thinners, must be stopped temporarily. If you use an inhaler, don’t forget to bring it with you on the day of your surgery.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (954) 248-2250; we will be happy to assist you.
You may come with one person of your choice. This companion may stay with you before surgery and, if you wish, after the procedure.
For pediatric patients, both parents or legal guardians usually attend. We do our best to accommodate everyone, but only one will be allowed in the recovery room at a time. Please do not bring young children as companions, as the center’s environment is designed for medical care and patient tranquility.
Each patient receives personalized care, so the administration of sedation will depend on your specific needs and the type of procedure.
Your anesthesiologist will evaluate your case and, together with you, create a personalized anesthesia plan. In that plan, it will be determined whether it is necessary or appropriate to administer a sedative before the procedure.
Yes, in fact, we recommend it, so you feel comfortable and relaxed before your procedure. You may bathe, wash your hair, and brush your teeth as usual. Please do not use makeup, hairspray, nail polish, lotions, or perfumes, as these products can affect medical monitoring during anesthesia.
Yes, absolutely. All patients meet with their anesthesiologist on the day of the procedure before entering the operating room. In that conversation, you may raise any doubts or concerns, and the doctor will explain every detail of the anesthesia process.
If you wish to speak with your anesthesiologist in advance, simply contact Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center to arrange a call or in-person meeting. If you prefer, you may send your questions to info@browardambulatory.com.
Yes, please. If you use a walker, crutches, a cane, hearing aids, or any other assistive device, bring them with you on the day of your surgery. Our staff will be available to help you use them safely during your stay at the center.
We recommend coming well-prepared so that your experience is more comfortable:
- Bring the case for your glasses or contact lenses.
- Do not forget your insurance cards, photo ID, medical forms, and copayments.
- Bring your current medications in their original containers.
- Make sure someone will drive you home and stay with you afterward.
- If your child is the patient, you may bring their favorite bottle or cup to help them feel calm.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- For your safety, leave jewelry and valuables at home.
It is normal to have doubts or concerns, but we want to reassure you: all surgeries and anesthetics carry some level of risk, which varies depending on your health and the type of procedure.
At Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center, we primarily treat healthy patients, so serious complications are very rare. Our team works to the highest standards to ensure your safety and well-being at all times.
We understand that parents want to accompany their children at all times. In some cases, the anesthesiologist may authorize one parent to enter the operating room if deemed appropriate and safe.
Each situation is different, so this decision is made on an individual basis in collaboration with the medical team. Sometimes, other options may be more suitable, providing greater calm and safety for both the child and you.
After Surgery FAQS
Managing your pain is a priority for our team. We will assess your level of pain from the time you arrive at the center until the follow-up call at home. We want you to be informed and prepared at every stage, which is why we will begin discussing pain management from our first contact.
During your stay, we will ask you to rate your pain on a numerical scale called the Visual Analog Scale, or, for children, the Faces Pain Scale. Based on that information, we will adjust your treatment to ensure your comfort.
At Broward Ambulatory Surgical Center, we use various strategies to control pain, which may include oral medication, intravenous medication, nerve blocks, or local anesthesia during the procedure. Before your surgery, you will have the opportunity to speak with your anesthesiologist and surgeon about the most suitable options for you. We encourage you to express any questions or concerns, as good communication ensures a smoother and more comfortable recovery.
No. After receiving anesthesia or sedation, you will not be allowed to drive, walk alone, or use public transportation. You must have a responsible person to drive you home and stay with you upon arrival. Please make these arrangements in advance to ensure your safety.