Frequently Asked Questions

Do you require a negative Covid-19 test result prior to my procedure? What types of tests are accepted?

No. A Negative Covid-19 test is not required prior to your procedure regardless of vaccination status. You will be screened for symptoms and/or exposure both over the phone and upon entrance into the facility.

Why does my doctor prefer to do my surgery at an Ambulatory Surgery Center instead of a hospital?

Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC) provide a safe and caring environment that is more convenient than a large hospital. Clinical staff at the Surgery Center of Rhode Island are highly trained specialists in Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology, for patients who do not need an overnight hospital stay. The ASC provides the highest quality care and scheduling flexibility at a cost to you that is usually less than traditional hospital-based care.

Is an ASC as safe as a hospital?

Yes. The Surgery Center of Rhode Island has passed a series of rigorous health and safety inspections, which qualify it for Medicare deemed status accreditation by the Association of Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), and licensing by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH).

When will I receive a pre-operative phone call with arrival time?

A member of our nursing staff will call you the day before surgery to provide you with an arrival time and address any last minute questions you may have. Our schedules are finalized the day before each surgical day, so we are unable to provide you with a surgical time any sooner than the day before your procedure.

Who will be in the operating room when I am having the surgery done?

Each surgery is unique to each patient, but in general terms, surgical patients are attended to by their surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and surgical technicians.

What kinds of anesthesia are there?

There are four types of anesthesia: general, regional, monitored anesthesia care (MAC), and local anesthesia.

• General Anesthesia affects your entire body and may be given intravenously or as an inhaled gas.
• Regional Anesthesia only affects a section of your body, blocking sensation and making it numb.
• Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) is medication given to make you drowsy and to relieve pain. This is often used to supplement local anesthesia.

Local Anesthesia is medication directed only to the location of surgery. It is usually injected, and you may remain awake or be sedated.

How soon can I go home after my procedure?

Your time spent in recovery will be dependent on the type of procedure you had. More complicated cases may require an hour or more in recovery. Your surgeon and nurse will explain your stay with you.

Will I be able to drive home?

You will not be permitted to drive home and you must make arrangements for someone to drive you. You will also not be permitted to take an Uber/Lyft ride alone and you must have someone accompany you. Please reach out to our preassessment nurse with any questions about the ride home after your procedure.

Who do I call with pre- or post-surgical questions or concerns?

Specific questions or concerns related to your procedure or problems afterward should be discussed with your surgeon or Surgery Center of Rhode Island clinical staff.

What should I bring with me on the day of my procedure? What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable loose clothing and bring your photo ID, insurance card, any payments required, and reading glasses if you need them. For pediatrics; you may bring a bottle or favorite cup/toy or pacifier/comfort item. All valuables should remain at home.

What should I do if I cannot make it to my scheduled procedure?

The surgery center understands that conflicts may arise with your procedure date, so we ask that you notify any member of the surgery center staff as soon as possible. Please contact your surgeons office to reschedule your procedure.