Jamaica Hospital’s New Ambulatory Surgery Unit

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center recently opened its new Ambulatory Surgical Unit (ASU).  

The expanded ASU enables the hospital to enhance its surgical services by increasing volume and provides a more efficient and enhanced layout, with a dedicated space for the timely service of elective and same-day procedures. “The new ASU will allow us to increase our volume and accommodate our growing surgical services to meet the needs of our community”, said Dr. Antonietta Morisco, Chairperson of Anesthesiology. 

Jamaica Hospital’s ASU features four state-of-the-art operating rooms, a spacious admitting and recovery area for patients, and a comfortable waiting area for family members. Patients who have been to the ASU are amazed at how beautiful and modern the facility is and have said they have had a wonderful experience there. 

The ASU has the latest technology to support minimally invasive surgical procedures, highlighted by a da Vinci robot. A few of the surgical subspecialties provided at the ASU include general surgery, ENT, urology, orthopedics, podiatry, gynecology, pain management, and pediatrics. Jamaica Hospital’s new ASU has a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and support staff.  

With the new amenities at the Ambulatory Surgery Unit, the team at the ASU looks forward to continuing to provide the community with high-quality care, building on its commitment to giving patients the best and most stress-free experience possible before, during, and after their surgical procedures.  

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Preparing for Your Outpatient Visit

Outpatient surgery also known as day surgery eliminates the need for an overnight hospital stay. This procedure is minimally invasive surgical techniques.  Being told that you need surgery is a pretty terrifying feeling especially if it is your first one and you do not know what to expect. Here are a few notes to follow to make sure you are prepared for your outpatient surgical procedure.

Prior to your surgery you will receive instruction from your doctor or nurse about pre-operative precautions. Please follow all pre-operative instructions such as what medications to take or hold, when to stop eating and drinking and what time to be at the registration desk to register for your surgery or procedure. It is advisable to bring someone from your family to interpret or sign for you if necessary. As expected for outpatient surgery you will go home the same day, you will not be allowed to drive yourself home from your surgery or procedure if you have received any sedation. Please have your ride home arranged before the day of surgery.

People with medical problems, such as prior heart attacks or strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, should visit with their doctor or anesthesiologist before the day of their surgery. At this visit, the doctor may also require the following information:

  • Copies of medical records, especially ECGs and results of heart and lung testing and recent lab tests
  • A list of medical problems and past surgical procedures, including any problems that occurred during prior surgeries
  • A complete list of medications (both prescription and over-the-counter), including vitamins, herbs, or other supplements, and their dosages
  • A clearly identified list of medications that cause allergic reactions or other problems

The day of your surgery it is strongly advised that you do not wear contacts, makeup or dentures. Contacts may dry out or get lost over the duration of the procedure. Makeup interferes with tape and surgical tools depending on the area you are having operated.  A representative from the surgery department will come to the waiting room to escort you to the area where you will change into a surgical gown. You will be asked to empty your bladder and change into the gown. Some female patients may be asked for a urine sample to provide pregnancy status.

Although outpatient surgery does not require an overnight hospital stay, in some circumstances a patient intended for outpatient surgery may be admitted to the hospital for further care. If you require surgery, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s newly remodeled Ambulatory Surgery Unit provides patient centered care that focuses on relaxation and comfort. The ASU is open Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, please call 718-206-6102.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.