Preparing for Surgery

No one ever feels completely prepared for surgery. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we do everything possible to help our patients feel comfortable and at ease. From our specialty-trained team of general and surgical oncologists to our experienced support staff, we provide advanced treatment options so you can get back as soon as possible to the important things in your life.

As your surgery approaches, we want you to feel informed and prepared. We’ve created a brochure, A Patient’s Guide to Surgery, to guide you through your time with us and maximize your comfort. The surgery teams at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health want to provide you with a positive surgical experience and get you moving on the road to your best recovery.

When we scheduled your surgery, your surgeon made an appointment for you with the preadmission clinic. This appointment takes place before your scheduled surgery. It may be an in-person appointment or a telephone appointment.

Your participation in the preadmission clinic appointment is important, as it:

• Allows us to complete paperwork and any tests necessary for your procedure
• Helps us be more fully prepared to serve you on the day of your surgery

• Gig Harbor Surgery Clinic
  253-858-4335
• St. Anne Hospital
  206-988-5792
• St. Anthony Hospital
  253-530-2233
• St. Clare Hospital
  253-985-2620
• St. Elizabeth Hospital
  360-802-8624
• St. Francis Hospital
  253-944-4173
• St. Joseph Medical Center
  253-426-6976
• St. Michael Medical Center
  360-744-5659

Your surgical team will give you preoperative instructions, including information about eating, drinking, bathing, and taking medication prior to your surgery. Before coming to the hospital:

• Make arrangements for transportation to and from the hospital.
• Shower, then dress in loose, comfortable clothing.
• Leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
• Notify your provider if you have any health changes, such as a fever.

On the day of your surgery, please arrive two hours before your scheduled surgery time. Bring the following items with you to the surgery center on your surgery day:

• Insurance card(s)
• Co-payment (cash, check, and/or major credit cards)
• Driver’s license or picture identification
• List of all medications, vitamins, and/or herbal supplements with dosages
• Any paperwork from your provider’s office
• If you’ll be spending the night at the hospital after your surgery, please bring a nightgown or pajamas, robe and slippers and personal toiletries.
• Don’t bring jewelry (wedding ring, watch, etc.) and other personal items.

Hospital preregistration staff may contact you prior to your surgery date to help simplify your registration process and answer any questions you may have.

We encourage you to ask your surgeon and members of your care team any questions you have. Feeling confident and informed about your procedure will help you have your best recovery. Commonly asked questions may include:

• How will you perform the operation?
• What are the possible complications?
• How will you manage my anesthesia?
• How should I prepare for my surgery?
• What will my recovery (short-term and long-term) be like?
• Will I be able to return home following my surgery?
• What type of care will I need?

Our hospitals and surgery centers are conveniently located throughout Washington state.