Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a Private Room?
Our patient rooms are semiprivate. Our hope is for all rooms to be comfortable for our patients and guests. We will make every effort to have only one patient per room, but it may not be possible due to occupancy or patients with special needs who require private rooms.
Can I stay overnight with my family member?
As patient census allows, we are happy to accommodate requests for overnight visits by family members. Please let us know as soon as possible should you desire to have an overnight visitor, so we can make appropriate plans. Please also discuss your plans with your nurse so we can ensure your safety.
What are visiting hours?
Designated visiting hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
We have an open visitation policy at Physicians Surgical Hospitals. This means that visitors are welcome at any time. We ask, however, that good judgment be used in deciding when and how long to visit. Most patients appreciate visits from family and friends, but often tire easily during the recovery process following surgery.
Should you prefer not to have visitors, we will respect those wishes. We encourage you to let your visitors know when you would like to see them and when you prefer to rest.
Visitors with infections diseases, particularly upper respiratory infections, should not visit post-operative patients. We can supply masks and other protective equipment for short visits. If you visitor does have symptoms of an infections, please consult the nurse for advice regarding visitation.
How do I get in the Hospital after hours or on week-ends?
For the security of our patients and staff, the hospital's main entrance is locked after 5:00 p.m. daily and all weekend. Visitors should use the designated entrance from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Do you have a Cafeteria?
We do not have a full-service cafeteria; however vending machines are conveniently located at each facility.
- Vending machines are available at Panhandle Surgical Hospital both in the main lobby and on the patient stay unit.
- Vending machines at Quail Creek Surgical Hospital are located just inside the doors of the north lobby.
Each hospital has a list of conveniently located restaurants available at the nurses' station and also at the reception desk at the main entrance. If we may be of assistance in helping you find an area restaurant for dine-in or delivery, please let us know.
What do I wear the day of surgery?
Comfortable and loose clothing is best. Shorts, sweats, oversized button front shirts or large t-shirts are generally the best. When choosing your clothing to wear after surgery, please keep in mind the type of surgery you are having. For example, if you are having shoulder surgery, you will not be able to raise your shoulder right after surgery. A button front shirt may be the best option. If you are having any type of knee surgery, you will most likely have dressings, cold packs and/or braces. Loose fitting pants or shorts are a necessity.
What do I need to bring to the hospital?
- Insurance identification card, Social Security card or Medicare card
- Any home medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbal or dietary supplements.
- Personal items you will need during your hospitalization. These might include toiletries, a robe, reading material, one or two checks and a small amount of cash ($10.00).
- Small electrical appliances such as shavers and hair dryers are acceptable. Bring essential medical devices such as hearing aids and dentures.
- Some personal belongings require special care. Ask your nurse for a denture cup for your dentures and a personal belongings bag for any other items you may need to store. Be sure your name is on the cup or bag.
- Favorite drinks or snacks for kids
- Diapers, Bottles and Sippy Cups
- DO NOT bring valuables.
What time do I need to be at the hospital?
Your physician's office will tell you when to arrive for surgery. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, you will be asked to arrive 1 to 2 hours prior to you actual surgery time. During this time, a pre-operative nurse will ask you to change into a hospital gown, check your vital signs, review your health history, and may start an IV and/or give you medications. You will also be visited by your anesthesia provider and your surgeon to explain the upcoming procedures and to answer any questions you might have. If your surgeon has ordered any type pre-operative pain management, it will be administered during this time.
Why does everyone keep asking me what procedure I'm having done? Doesn't the hospital know?
Throughout your pre-procedure preparation, multiple members of your clinical care team will ask you to confirm your name, date of birth, the surgical location, and the procedure to be performed. This is part of our commitment to patient safety and ensuring correct site surgery.
Can I bring food to a patient in the hospital?
Although Physicians Surgical Hospitals has excellent food, families and friends may bring food to the patient as long as the patient is not on a special diet. Please check with the nurse before giving food to the patient.
When will I be discharged?
Patients are discharged upon a written order from their physician, so your time of discharge may depend on when your surgeon makes his daily visits. As a general rule, your nurse will know approximately when you will be going home. Please plan on leaving by 11:00 a.m. and make arrangements for someone to pick you up by that time.
How long will I be in Recovery?
Time in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) varies by patient and the time of surgery. As a general rule, recovery takes about an hour. However, each patient responds to anesthesia and pain differently, so it may take longer for some than others. If you are in recovery for longer than an hour, it does not mean anything is wrong.