California

State regulatory bodies specify that patients must have a responsible person accompany them home due to significant cognitive and psychomotor impairment after anesthesia. Patients must be driven home in a suitable vehicle (not a bus or other form of public transportation) to ensure postoperative safety. A Uber/Lyft or taxi driver is not considered a responsible person. 

To be deemed a responsible party, such a person must be physically and mentally able to make decisions for the patient’s welfare if and when necessary. Moreover, the responsible person must comply with post-operative requirements, i.e.: assist the patient with activities of daily living, transportation, dressing changes, emotional support etc. This responsible party must accompany the patient throughout their entire recovery period. If no arrangements are made to have a caregiver present during this recovery period, the surgery will therefore be cancelled. 

Securing safe, stable housing is a priority to ensure that patients have appropriate accommodations made for their recovery period. Post-operative housing can include the patient’s home, a hotel, or a close friend or relative’s home. The patient is strongly advised to stay within 30 minutes of the hospital from the time of discharge to the last postoperative appointment. Securing housing on the ground level or in a facility with elevator access is highly advisable.