Preparing for Surgery

You're in good hands.

At Texas Health Center for Diagnostics & Surgery, we understand that an impending medical procedure may present feelings of nervousness or anxiety. We want to help alleviate these feelings as much as we can so that you and your family are relaxed, comfortable and confident in your care team. Your surgeon will provide specific details related to your procedure, including pre- and post-surgical care, but here are some general guidelines that can help ensure that your surgery runs smoothly.

Before surgery

Pre-testing appointment

If you have not done so, please schedule any pre-tests (lab work, etc.) with us, if your physician requires it. You may schedule these appointments by calling (972) 403-2700.

Day of surgery

Arriving at the hospital

We have abundant, free parking directly in front of the hospital. The front doors of the hospital open at 5:30 a.m. and our front desk personnel begin checking patients in at 6:00 a.m. Unless specified by your physician, please plan to arrive at least an hour and a half prior to your procedure time.

After checking in, our staff will verify important information with you and have you sign consent forms that acknowledge your permission for the procedure. If the patient is a minor, the forms must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Be prepared

What to bring

Here are some additional reminders to help you stay free of stress on the day of your arrival:

Please bring a driver’s license or government issued identification as well as your insurance card.
Do not wear contact lenses. You may wear eyeglasses (and wear dentures) until you are prepared for your procedure.
Wear loose-fitting clothing that can be easily folded and stored. Leave jewelry and valuables at home.
Children may bring a special toy, blanket or pacifier. Parents of small children should also bring an empty bottle and a clean diaper.
If you are taking medication for asthma, blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac reasons or blood thinners, please consult with your physician on taking these medications the day of your procedure. Additionally, notify your physician if you are taking over the counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen or herbal supplements.
Please bring any medications you are taking in the original container and inform your physician or pre-operative nurse regarding any treatments or equipment currently being used at home.
An anesthesiologist will discuss your anesthesia options with you prior to your procedure.

After surgery

Post-operative care

After your procedure, you will recover and be monitored by a registered nurse. Actual recovery time is different for each individual and depends on the nature of the procedure. However, we want to keep you as comfortable as possible and will assess your pain level after the procedure. Our care team will work with your physician to address any pain you may feel during your immediate post-surgical recovery.

Going home after your procedure

If you are scheduled to go home the day of the procedure, a nurse will review your physician’s discharge instructions with you and a family member. You will not be permitted to drive after the procedure and must have someone take you home.

Do not drive, operate machines or drink alcohol beverages or take medications other than those prescribed by your physician for a least 24 hours after your release. It is normal to feel dizzy and sleepy for several hours after your surgery. It is best to have someone home with you for the first 24 hours after your discharge. Do not sign any important paperwork or make critical decisions until the effects of the anesthesia have worn off.

Follow up communications

You will receive a call by a hospital nurse following your procedure to check on your recovery. Any questions or concerns following your surgery should be addressed with your physician. Contact your physician if:

You have a fever over 101 degrees
Nausea with excessive vomiting (three or four times)
Pain not relieved by pain medication
Inability to urinate