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Wednesday 22 May 2013
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Before you come

It is important to plan carefully to make sure that the day case care goes smoothly.

You may be asked to attend a pre-operative assessment clinic. A nurse will discuss details of your operation with you and may arrange for you to have a blood test or x-ray. You can also discuss any concerns or questions you may have.


You will receive information about your admission to the day care unit from the hospital's admission department. Please confirm that you will be able to attend, otherwise your bed may be allocated to another patient.  Please also tell your GP the date of the operation.

 

Please inform your consultant's secretary as soon as possible if you:

 

  • Develop a cold, sore throat or other illness.
  • Know you are pregnant or think you might be.
  • Will be unable to come in for any other reason.


Eating and drinking

If you will be having a general anaesthetic or sedation, it is important that you do not eat or drink for six hours before you come into hospital. You must not eat sweets or chew gum. These instructions are for your own safety and if you fail to follow them, your operation may be cancelled. Do not smoke for 24 hours before your appointment.

 

Shaving

If you will be having an operation for varicose veins or a hernia repair, please ask at the pre-admission clinic for advice about the area to shave.

 

Bathing

Please bath or shower on the morning of your operation.

You will be invited to attend a pre-assessment clinic before you come into hospital. A number of investigations may be conducted during this time.

The clinic gives you a chance to ask any questions you may have and you may meet the staff who will care for you during your admission to hospital.

Your appointment letter will tell you the date and time of your consultation and the name of your consultant or the clinic. You will normally be expected to make your own way to hospital. If you are attending the clinic for the first time and think you may need hospital transport, please tell your doctor.


Travel costs

If you are on a low income, you may be entitled to help with your travel costs. You will need to show proof that you are receiving benefits, such as income support or family credit, and proof of your travel costs, such as tickets or petrol receipts. Please take these to the Patient Services Office, located in the main corridor, outside outpatients appointments for reimbursement.

Interpreters

Many of the staff are able to speak other languages and every effort will be made to assist you if English is not your first language. If an interpreter is needed please contact the clinic at least four days before the appointment to give information about the date and time of the patient's appointment and the language spoken. Please ask one of the staff to request an interpreter if you are in any doubt about what is being said to you.