Welcome to the Surgical Day/Ambulatory Care Center
(978) 521-8200

Modern medicine and anesthesia has made it possible for 75 percent of all surgical procedures to be performed in one day. Most patients prefer one-day surgery for its greater convenience, a faster return to the comforts of your own home, and lower hospital bills.

The Ambulatory Care Center at Merrimack Valley Hospital offers each patient a private room to make you comfortable and ensure your privacy. When you arrive for a procedure, a member of our staff will explain your procedure and our hospital routines in detail.

Preparing for Your Surgery

• If you become sick, have a cold, fever, or infection, please notify your surgeon. It may be necessary to postpone your procedure until you are well again.

• Arrange for a ride home. The effect of anesthesia can stay with you for some time after your procedure, so you must have someone take you home. For some procedures you may also need someone to stay with you overnight.

• Do not eat solid food or drink any liquids after midnight on the night before your procedure. During your pre-surgery interview, you will be instructed about medications.

On the Day of Surgery

• Please leave extra clothing or valuables, including jewelry, at home.

• If you wear contact lenses, a hearing aid or dentures, please feel free to bring them with you. Your physician may require you to remove them prior to surgery. If you wear contact lenses, please bring your carrying case and eyeglasses.

• Don't wear makeup or nail polish. Be sure to remove all eye makeup.

• Clothing: Please wear comfortable clothing, but some clothing should be avoided for certain surgeries.

  • If you are having shoulder or breast surgery, wear a button down shirt.

  • If you are having hand or wrist surgery, wear a loose-fitting sleeve.

  • If you are having knee surgery, wear sweat pants or gym shorts.

• Children may bring a favorite toy or blanket.

• We request that a parent/guardian of a patient under 18 years of age remain in the Ambulatory Care Center until the patient is discharged.

After Your Surgery

The length of time you stay in the hospital after surgery varies with the procedure, the type of anesthesia received and your response to the procedure.

Immediately after your surgery, you will go to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) which is also known as the "Recovery Room."

If you are to return home that day, you will continue your recovery in the Ambulatory Care Center where your nurse will review your home care instructions with you and answer any questions you may have before you leave. Most Ambulatory Care Center patients are discharged before 5:00 p.m. If you are to be admitted to inpatient care, you will be transferred to a private room.

For additional information, please contact:

Surgical Day Care at Merrimack Valley Hospital
140 Lincoln Avenue
Haverhill, MA 01830

Phone: (978) 521-8200