You're scheduled for surgery, but the person who agreed to drive you home suddenly can't make it.
Or maybe your surgery is over, you're ready for discharge, and your ride isn't answering the phone.
If your ride home from surgery falls through, tell your surgical team as soon as possible. Many procedures involving anesthesia or sedation require an approved adult to take you home, and some facilities also require someone to stay with you afterward.
Your options depend on your procedure, anesthesia, and facility's discharge policies.
Anesthesia, sedation, and certain medications can temporarily affect alertness, judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Even if you feel awake and comfortable, you may not be ready to drive or travel home independently.
Many surgical facilities require a responsible adult to accompany patients home after procedures involving anesthesia or sedation. Some also require that person to remain with the patient for a period after discharge.
The exact requirements vary, so confirm what applies to your surgery.
Call your surgeon's office or surgical facility as soon as you learn that your transportation plans have changed.
Ask:
If you're unable to arrange transportation, the facility may need to discuss rescheduling your procedure.
Don't wait until check-in to mention that you no longer have a ride. Early communication gives the team more time to help you understand your options.
Tell your nurse or discharge team.
They can explain the facility's requirements and help you determine the next steps.
Depending on the situation, you may be able to contact another approved adult or use a transportation option that meets the facility's policies.
Your discharge may need to be delayed while arrangements are made.
Don't leave on your own or arrange transportation that conflicts with your discharge instructions.
Not necessarily.
A standard rideshare or taxi driver generally isn't the same as a responsible adult who agrees to accompany you and help you get home safely.
Some facilities may allow a rideshare or taxi if an approved adult accompanies you. Others have different requirements or approved medical transportation arrangements.
Ask your surgical facility what it permits before relying on a rideshare.
Don't assume that booking a car is enough to satisfy your discharge requirements.
See more in Can I Take an Uber or Lyft Home After Surgery?
Tell your surgical team before your procedure.
Depending on your location and facility, possible options may include:
Not every facility offers transportation assistance, and transportation services may have additional costs or eligibility requirements.
If you also need help at home, see How to Arrange Help After Surgery.
Contact your surgical facility and let the staff know.
A short delay may be manageable, but the team needs to know when your ride is expected and whether your discharge arrangements still meet its requirements.
If your ride is no longer available, tell the team rather than continuing to wait without an updated plan.
Before surgery, confirm:
It can help to share the facility's instructions directly with the person picking you up.
If you're still preparing for surgery, What Should I Do the Week Before Surgery? can help you review other arrangements before the day arrives.
Preparing for surgery involves a lot of small but important steps. Download the free SurgiNav Surgery Prep Checklist to stay organized and feel more confident before your procedure.
If your ride home from surgery falls through, notify your surgical team as soon as possible.
Your facility can explain its discharge requirements and whether another person or transportation arrangement is acceptable.
The important thing is to make a safe, approved plan—not to assume you'll be able to figure it out after surgery.
Make sure you've completed the most important preparation steps before your procedure. Download the free SurgiNav Surgery Prep Checklist and head into surgery day with confidence.
Download the Free Surgery Prep ChecklistThis article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team.
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Educational information only. Always follow your surgeon's instructions.