Patient Preparation Guide

Orchard Surgical Center is a state-of-the-art surgical facility located in Salem, NH. We are committed to providing quality and affordable care to our patients. We know that our patients often have questions about their procedures. We will be communicating through text and email with preparatory items throughout this week.

Before you come in

Prior to Your Procedure

Surgical patients will receive communication to register via text and/or email. We request that you complete your online health history as soon as possible by clicking Pre-Register It is important that the surgeon and the anesthesiologist know your general state of health to better prepare to care for you. Please call (603) 401-6466 if you are unable to complete your pre-registration online.

Home Medication Instructions for All Surgical Patients

Patients on Diabetic Medications

Take HALF of your long-acting insulin dose the night before.
DO NOT TAKE your regular insulin dose the morning of your procedure.
Insulin pumps should be reduced to HALF (1/2) the basal rate two (2) hours prior to your arrival.
Do not take any diabetic medications by mouth on the morning of your procedure!

Please refer to the directions below for injectable GLP-1 Agonists.

Patients on Weekly Injectable GLP-1 Agonist.

Medications for any reason:

Patients on Blood Thinners:

Contact your physician for instructions for all blood thinners prior to your surgery to get instructions on when to stop taking these medications.

Patients on medications for your heart and/or blood pressure:

If you are not having anesthesia please take all of your regular medications as prescribed by your physician. If you are unsure if you are having anesthesia, please contact the surgeon’s office that is performing the procedure.

steps you need to take

The Day Before Your Procedure

You will receive a text message or phone call in the afternoon with the time you should arrive at the surgical center. Your arrival time is subject to change.
Please make arrangements with a responsible adult to drive you home after your surgery; plan to have someone with you for the following 24 hours.
If you are having local anesthesia, you may eat, drink, and drive yourself.
Do not eat anything after midnight. We now encourage you to drink clear liquids up until 2 hours prior to your scheduled arrival time unless instructed otherwise.
Do not drink any alcohol or use recreational drugs (including marijuana) for 24 hours prior to your procedure.
Follow the specific preparation and cleansing instructions given to you by your physician’s office if applicable.
If you develop a cold, persistent cough, fever, or flu please notify your surgeon. He/She may want to postpone your surgery.

what you need to bring

On The Day of Your Procedure

You will need to bring your insurance card, your Photo I.D., and a form of payment (if applicable).
Please arrive at the time confirmed by the surgical center.
Remove all body piercings. Do not wear contact lenses. Bring your glasses if you need them to read and sign paperwork.
Leave your valuables and jewelry at home.
If possible, wear loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove.
You may bring your cellphone with you.

When you return home

While at Home

It is not unusual to feel sleepy or dizzy after receiving sedation. Therefore, it is important that you go straight home, rest and follow your written instructions. Do not drink alcohol or take any medication other than what is prescribed by your doctor(s).
FOR SURGERY PATIENTS: Do not drive, do not use power tools, and do not make important decisions for 24 hours after discharge and/or while taking pain medication.
Please call (603) 685-4346 Monday - Friday between 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM if you have questions.

603-401-6466