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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions By Surgical Patients

How Long Will I Wait?

William Osler Health Centre and Headwaters Healthcare in Orangeville have together created a toll-free Wait Time Information Line for patients seeking wait time information for procedures at our hospitals, including hip and knee replacement, cataract, cancer, and cardiac surgeries, as well as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT scans.

Our toll-free number is:                     1-866-388-WAIT (9248)

The data provided corresponds to the information currently listed on the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Wait Time Strategy website at www.ontariowaittimes.com. The information in the website and on our toll free line will be regularly updated.

The information is available to help patients make informed choices about their healthcare. Patients are encouraged to listen to the various wait times and discuss the information with their physician to help them decide where to be referred for their surgery. 

What do I do if I need to cancel?

If you are unable to have surgery at the time booked, please inform your surgeon’s office immediately.  This will enable someone else to have that valuable operating room time and your surgery will be rescheduled.  If you must cancel the evening, night or weekend before surgery, please contact the Hospital Registration Department at:

Etobicoke General Hospital         416 494-2120  Ext. 33554
Brampton Civic Hospital                905 494-2120

What if I have some last minute questions?

If you have any unanswered questions the weekday afternoon before your surgery (i.e. Friday before Monday surgery or Monday before Tuesday surgery) please call:

Etobicoke General Hospital         416 494-2120  Ext. 33486
Brampton Civic Hospital                905 494-6587

What should I bring with me to the hospital?

Please limit personal belongings on the day of surgery to one small overnight case, due to lack of storage space.  Please remember to bring with you the following:

  • An interpreter (if required)
  • Any papers your doctor has given
  •   Any medications you are regularly taking including insulin and puffers
  • Your Ontario Health Card or other insurance
  • Hospital identification card
  • Your Workers Compensation Board (WCB) number (if applicable)
  • A minimum of personal items for your stay such as robe, slippers, toothbrush
  •   If you have crutches at home, please bring them in with you if you require them after surgery

What should I do to prepare for surgery?

Thanks to recent advances in surgical techniques, the recovery time traditionally associated with surgery is greatly reduced.  It is important to understand, however, that the same precautions must be taken to ensure you have a safe and successful surgery. 

  •   Have nothing to eat or drink after midnight the evening before surgery; not even water, candy or chewing gum. It is essential that your stomach be empty during your operation.
  • If you smoke, every effort should be made to stop for at least the duration of your surgery and recovery.  Complications are fewer in non-smokers and there is less discomfort due to coughing.
  • Please do not wear perfumes or colognes.  The health centre is a fragrance free environment.
  • Dress in loose clothing and comfortable, flat shoes.
  •   Leave all valuables at home
  • If you wear glasses, contact lenses or dentures, bring your own storage containers. These items will need to be removed before surgery.
  •   Remove make-up and nail polish
  • Remove all jewelry including watches and wedding rings
  • Bring the name and number of the person who is picking you up after your surgery

I am having Cosmetic Surgery not covered by health insurance. How do I pay for the procedure?

All patients scheduled for Cosmetic Surgery must pre-pay the hospital charges prior to Surgery.  Cash, certified cheque or credit cards are accepted. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of your surgery. Please go to the Business Office located near the Main Lobby BEFORE reporting for surgery.

Who should come to the hospital with me?

On the day of your surgery, we ask that you bring only one (1) family member or companion to accompany you. We do encourage family members to participate in your care. Your nurse will be pleased to explain ways in which family members can help. Please tell your visitors to come only during visiting hours, 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. These hours may be extended on the day of your surgery or in special circumstances.  Please note only two (2) visitors per patient are allowed at one time.

Where do I go when I arrive at the hospital for surgery?

Patients scheduled for surgery at Etobicoke General Hospital should first register at the Central Registration Desk located in the Main Lobby of the hospital. You will then be directed to the Day Surgery Unit or the Surgical Suite.

What happens when it is time to go home?

In most cases, your caregiver will be able to tell you in advance the day and approximate time you will be discharged.  You are expected to make the arrangements necessary to ensure you have someone to pick you up at the appropriate discharge time.  The person picking you up should come to your inpatient unit in case you require assistance with your personal items. If required, a porter can be arranged to assist you in getting to the patient pickup area at the Main Lobby.

After Surgery, your mental and physical functions may be impaired for some time due to the effects of the general anaesthetic.  For the next 24 hours following surgery, you should:

Be in the care of a responsible adult

  • Not drive a motorized vehicle or operate hazardous machinery
  • Defer any important decisions
  • Avoid traveling alone by public transit
  • Not consume alcohol

 

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