Outpatient Surgery
Outpatient surgery (also known as ambulatory surgery) is surgery that does not require an overnight hospital stay. Patients have a procedure, recover and are able to go home. Rawlins County Health Center offers a convenient location for patients to receive these services close to home.
Some examples of outpatient procedures and surgeries provided at RCHC are:
- Colonoscopy
- EGD
- Skin Excisions
- Anesthesia Services
What To Expect
On the day of your surgery, your preoperative nurse will help you get ready for your procedure. They will confirm your name, date of birth and the procedure you are having. They will check that you have signed your consents and answer any questions you may have. The anesthesia provider will visit with you and answer any questions you may have regarding your anesthesia. The surgeon will visit with you about the procedure and answer your questions. The surgical (OR) nurse will take you to the operating room for your procedure. Following your procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room. Your postoperative nurse will monitor you as the anesthesia medication wears off. Your surgeon will come see you and discuss how things went. Your postoperative nurse will then assist you to get ready to go home.
Before Your Surgery
A nurse from the surgery department will call you before your procedure to obtain a medical history. The nurse will verify instructions and inform you of the time you need to report for surgery. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure. For your safety, you will not be permitted to leave unattended. If you have not been contacted, have questions or need to reschedule your surgery, please call (785) 626-3211 Extension 2130.
Food & Drink Instructions
It is imperative that you follow specific preoperative food and fluid instructions. Failure to follow these guidelines could result in the cancellation of your procedure. You may have clear liquids up until 2 hours before your arrival time, but no other liquids. No chewing gum or tobacco the morning of your procedure.
Day of Surgery
Do not bring valuables or money, except payment arranged through our Business Office. Remove jewelry and leave it at home. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to get on and off. If you wear contact lenses, please bring your container. Come in the main entrance and check in at the registration desk from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. After hours and on weekends, enter through the Emergency Room entrance and check in at the Nurse's Station. Your surgery time may be moved ahead. Be prepared to come early if we call you. Also, emergencies may cause delays in your scheduled operating time. Please be patient. A nurse will admit you and prepare you for surgery. You will be asked to sign necessary forms. A parent or guardian must sign for a minor (under 18). You will meet with your physician and anesthetist prior to surgery. Your family members and friends may wait in our lobby while you are in surgery. Please be on time to prevent delays. Please note: If you are not of sound mind, a Durable Power of Attorney will need to be present when signing consents the day of the procedure.
After Surgery
After surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery room to be prepared for discharge. When you have met the recovery guidelines specified by your doctor, you will be discharged. A responsible adult must drive you home from RCHC. For your safety, you will not be permitted to leave unattended. You should plan to have a responsible adult at home with you for 24 hours after your surgery. You will be given home care instructions by your doctor and nurse. Once you are home, contact your doctor immediately if you have any problems or surgery-related questions. Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours after surgery or if taking prescribed medication. Do not drive a motor vehicle or make any important decisions (including legal decisions) within 24 hours of surgery. Medication may prevent you from thinking clearly. An RCHC nurse will contact you within three days to make certain your recovery is going smoothly.
Our Providers
Brenda Kopriva, MD
General Surgery
