After your procedure is completed, you will be moved to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) where you will be closely observed and cared for as you recover. Patient’s undergoing general anesthesia will begin their recovery in Phase I. When you are awake, pain is tolerable and your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygenation are stable, you will be transferred to Phase II recovery where you will be offered something to eat and drink and reunited with your family. Patient’s having their surgeries performed under sedation or local anesthesia will go directly to Phase II recovery following surgery. For our pediatric patients, one parent is allowed in the Phase I recovery as soon as the child is awake.

During your Phase II recovery, you will be given instructions regarding your operation, activity, wound care, bathing, medications and follow-up. It is important to follow-up with your surgeon at the scheduled appointments so that your healing can be monitored.

You must have a family member or trusted friend with you at the time of discharge. It is important for them to receive the instructions as well since anesthesia can affect your memory. In addition to written discharge instructions, a reliable family member or friend can help you remember important information after your operation. A few specific points can be particularly helpful:

• Follow the instructions that are given to you.

• If you’ve had general anesthesia, for the first 24 hours, eat soft foods in small amounts. Sometimes anesthesia or surgery can result in nausea or vomiting.

• Avoid taking pain medications on an empty stomach as this may cause nausea.

• Do not drive, use power equipment or make important decisions if you are taking medications that could decrease your alertness or if you cannot move freely and without pain.

It is important that you have someone to stay with you for the remainder of the day and during the first night for your safety.