Depending on the reasons for your surgery/procedure, you may be considered an “outpatient” or an “inpatient”.
As an OUTPATIENT, you will come to the Hospital with the expectation that after your surgery/procedure and a recovery period, you will be able to leave that same day. There are specific criteria that help your nurses and physicians decide when you are ready to leave. It is recommended that two persons accompany a child having outpatient surgery. This will enable one person to care for the child while the other person drives. NOTE: All minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Occasionally, patients having outpatient surgery will be in the Hospital for an extended stay to receive nursing care. This is called “observation” and may occur for a variety of reasons. If your physician feels you need to stay longer, he or she will make the decision for you to become an inpatient.
Admission as an INPATIENT means that you will stay in the Hospital for one or more nights. If your physician knows this when your surgery is being scheduled, you can bring the things you need with you such as toiletries, robe, etc.
If you have planned to return home after surgery and find that you will have to stay instead, the Hospital can provide basic toiletries. The nursing staff will assist you and your family in moving you to your new room after your surgery/procedure.