Phone Numbers
Directory assistance
(203) 688-4242
Patient information
(203) 688-4177
Adult emergency
(203) 688-2222
Children's emergency
(203) 688-3333
Admitting
(203) 688-2221
Children's admitting
(203) 688-3331
Psychiatric admitting
(203) 688-9907
Mailing address:
Yale-New Haven Hospital
20 York Street
New Haven, CT
06510-3202
Preparing for hysterectomy surgery
If you take time to prepare for your hysterectomy, chances are you’ll get through it with more ease. As your surgery approaches, ask your doctor and anesthesiologist any lingering questions about complications, stitches, pain, returning to work and anything else. You can also attend YNHH’s free hysterectomy class.
You might want to look into making autologous blood donations—giving your own blood preoperatively for use in the event you need a transfusion during your operation. You should begin several weeks in advance, donating a unit every two weeks until you build up a supply. For more information on autologous blood donations, call (203) 688-4707.
YNHH staff are available to answer common questions about your hospital stay.
You should also take time before the operation to:
- Visit the Express Admission Service on the 3rd floor of the East Pavilion at 20 York Street a week before surgery for necessary blood work, X-rays, EKG's or other tests. Call (203) 688-5860 to schedule an appointment with the Express Admission Service a week before your operation.
- When you visit the Express Admission Service, make a mental note of location and parking.
- Check to see what your insurance covers as far as the number of days in the hospital and home care after discharge.
- Follow your doctor's advice on whether you should avoid certain medications or stop smoking to minimize the chance of complications during surgery.
- Decide what items to bring; pack lightly. Bring a nightgown that won’t be tight around your belly, a robe, slippers and personal hygiene items.
- Eat lightly, consuming small meals the day before surgery. Do not eat or drink after midnight before your surgery.
- You may be instructed to douche and have an enema the night before surgery.
- Remove any nail polish.
- Plan to give eyeglasses to a friend or family member for safekeeping during surgery.
- Line up someone to drive you home on your day of discharge.
Last revised: October 5, 2004 (jj)
