If you normally take medication then please follow the instructions you were given at the pre-operative assessment clinic. If you are unsure regarding whether to stop taking your medication before admission, please contact Pre-assessment. If you have been pre-assessed by your surgical speciality, please contact them directly if you are unsure of the arrangements around stopping your medication.
Shower or bathe before coming to the hospital and remove make-up, nail varnish, gel or acrylic nails, jewellery or any piercings.
If you have had diarrhoea or vomiting within 48 hours prior of your admission, please inform the Admissions Department. You should also inform us if you have had a cough, cold or flu symptoms during the immediate pre-operative period. On occasions it may be necessary to postpone your operation until you are well again.
It is recommended that you do not smoke prior to your operation. By not smoking, this helps to speed up the healing process, your overall recovery and reduces the risk of complications.
It is very important that you follow the instructions given regarding eating and drinking on the day of your operation. If you don’t, this can complicate the anaesthetic process and could mean that your operation has to be cancelled.
Interpreter Services
It is essential that good communication is maintained at all times during your visit. The Trust provides a comprehensive range of services.
If you require the assistance of an interpreter, please contact the admissions department immediately on receipt of your admissions letter. Please note that family members will not be allowed to interpret for you. Failure to arrange an interpreter will result in your appointment being cancelled on the day.
What to bring to the hospital
- Pack a small bag with the items you need on the day
- Slippers
- Dressing gown
- All your medications including inhalers
- If you wear glasses, please make sure you bring them with you on the day. This is so you can see the relevant legal paperwork, which must be signed before you can have your operation/procedure
- You may also want to bring a book or magazine to read whilst you wait
- Name and phone number of relative or friend collecting you after your operation
What not to bring
- Valuables
- Large sums of money
Lockers are available for use, but the Trust cannot accept responsibility for personal items brought into the hospital.
Fasting Information
In order for you to stay adequately hydrated we advise the following:
For Morning Admissions
- No food, milk, sweets or chewing gum to be consumed after midnight
- You can drink clear, still unflavoured water freely until 6 am
- You must drink 250mls still, clear, unflavoured water at 6 am
- Nothing more to drink after 6 am
For Afternoon Admissions
- You can have a small light breakfast before 7 am
- You can drink clear, still unflavoured water freely until 11 am
- You must drink 250mls still, clear, unflavoured water at 11 am
- Nothing more to drink after 11 am
Day Unit staff will inform you if you are allowed any further clear fluids once you have arrived on the unit.