Bartlett Regional | House Calls | Fall 2020

OUTPATIENT SURGERY: What to expect Schedules for elective and outpatient surgeries are open and filling up after a partial shutdown early in the pandemic. Whether you come to the hospital for a postponed colonoscopy, a knee repair after a recent accident, or laser eye surgery, you’ll encounter a new set of state-mandated protocols to keep you safe. Testing Patients are required to take a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to their scheduled surgery. The test will not be scheduled by Bartlett. Patients are responsible for scheduling their own test. If unable to schedule the test with your health care provider, please call the Capital City Fire and Rescue testing center at 907- 586-6000 for an appointment. If the test results are not in by the date of surgery, a rapid test will be administered at the hospital. Masking Bartlett Regional Hospital’s universal masking policy is in place for the time being. When you come to the hospital, please wear a face covering if at all possible. If you don’t have a mask, you will be provided with one. Screening Expect to be asked screening questions for COVID-19 every step of the way. If you have developed symptoms or been exposed to the virus, your surgery may need to be rescheduled. “Some people are frustrated by the repetition of it. But it needs to be done to ensure everyone’s safety,” says Lori Higgins, RN. Lori is the pre-operation nurse for Same Day Surgery. She calls patients with instructions the day before surgery and checks in the day after. Registration Prior to your appointment, you will receive a phone call from a representative from Patient Access Services who will verify your identification and insurance information. When you arrive for your procedure, you’ll have your temperature taken and be asked a series of screening questions at the front desk, just like all patients and visitors to the hospital. You’ll then meet with a Patient Access Services representative who will administer your ID band and have you sign a consent for treatment form. From there, you’ll be directed to Same Day Surgery. Same-day surgery patients are encouraged to be dropped off and picked up by their support person. Post-surgery, you will be escorted to your vehicle by a nurse, who will give your support person post-surgery care instructions and prescriptions. Cafeteria The cafe is CLOSED to the public and open only to BRH patients, their one allowed visitor and staff. HEALTHY LIVING Bartlett is committed to the safety of our patients and staff. Thank you for helping us keep our hospital safe during the pandemic. www.bartletthospital.org 5