Preparing for Surgery
Pre-Anesthesia Assessment Clinic
The Our Lady of the Lake Pre-Anesthesia Assessment Clinic (PAAC) team educates patients and families on what to expect, arranging pre-surgical testing and counseling with an anesthetist if indicated.
Information about pre-admission and registration for Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital can be found here.
A nurse and admissions team member will attempt to contact you by phone prior to your scheduled procedure to complete the pre-registration and admission process.
During your phone call you will:
- Update your current medical history
- Learn about your procedure
- Discuss your discharge needs with the nurse
- Have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns
- Complete the pre-admission process
If necessary, an appointment at PAAC may be scheduled for further evaluation by an anesthesia provider.
If an appointment is scheduled you will:
- Complete any lab work and diagnostic testing
- Meet with an anesthesia representative to discuss anesthesia-related to your specific surgical procedure
- Bring all medications you are currently taking in their original bottles or an updated list to this appointment.
Pre-Anesthesia Assessment Clinic
7777 Hennessy Boulevard
Medical Plaza I
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
(225) 765-8378
M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Pre-Registration and Pre-Certification
If you are unable to visit the PAAC, an admissions team member will attempt to contact you by phone regarding your admission and verify insurance coverage. If you do not have insurance or if you have workman's compensation coverage a team member is available to assist you.
Call (225) 765-1300 for more information.
What to Expect
For general surgeries, guests check in to St. Mary's Admissions desk on the second floor, and when it is time for surgery, the family is escorted to a private area to wait comfortably both before surgery and during recovery. These rooms are staffed with volunteers who give regular updates, and include a sitting area where family members can remain with the patient post-surgery.
Patients receiving heart or vascular procedures will register at the second floor admissions desk in the Heart & Vascular Institute.
Children are special guests when coming to the new Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital for surgery, with the same best-in-class care in an area designed just for kids. Learn more about preparing kids for surgery here.