Day Patients
At our Day Procedure Unit we carry out a wide variety of minor surgical and other clinical procedures that don’t require an overnight stay.
The Unit is open between 8.00am and 7.00pm. The time of admission and discharge is determined by the scheduling of the procedure in Theatre and the appropriate recovery time. If you’re having a general anaesthetic, we like to observe you post-procedure for at least 4 hours.
Preparing for admission >What to bring with you
- any medicine or inhalers you currently use – in the original packaging, if possible
- reading materials
- any X-rays or scans relevant to your admission
In addition:
- wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing
- we recommend you don’t bring jewellery or other valuables with you
Before you come to the Clinic for a procedure you’ll receive a letter from the consultant with directions about what you can eat or drink beforehand. Please follow these instructions carefully.
Important
If you become unwell before your admission with an unrelated illness – such as a flu, a cold, chest infection, urinary tract infection, diarrhoea or vomiting – contact the Clinic as soon as possible, since we may need to cancel or postpone your admission until you feel better.
Before your operation you’ll have to remove any make-up and nail varnish. False nails may also need to be removed for some procedures.
Consent
We require written consent for any anaesthetic, surgical or specialised examination. So you should make sure that you fully understand what is going to happen to you. Again, if you’re not clear about something, feel free to ask. Children under 16s should be accompanied by a parent or guardian, who will be required to sign the consent form.
Fasting
Certain procedures will require you to fast before coming to the Clinic. Your admission letter will set out the details about this.
Come in to the Clinic via the main entrance and go to reception, where your details will be checked. If necessary, you may then be directed to the accounts department to complete the financial arrangements for your treatment.
Once the administration process is complete, a member of the ward team will accompany you to your private room, where you can settle in.
Your room & facilities
Our private bedrooms are designed to ensure that you recover in a restful environment. Each room therefore has an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower. A call system enables you to ask for a nurse at any time.
• all rooms have satellite television provided at no extra charge
• free wi-fi is available in all patient rooms
• we will happily arrange for delivery of your choice of daily newspaper directly to your room
• mail will be delivered to your room; to post a letter, just ask one of the ward staff
• hairdressing and chiropody services are available on request • smoking is not permitted in the Clinic; if you are a smoker, please speak to the ward sister
Phones
Use of mobile phones is not permitted by patients or visitors in the Clinic.
Keep in touch with family and friends by using the telephone provided in your room. Every patient receives complimentary call credits; any additional units used may be charged to your account.
Immediately after your procedure, you will be able to rest in your private room. Your consultant will decide when you are able to go home. We strongly advise you not to drive yourself, so it’s important you arrange to have someone accompany you.
If your procedure involves sedation or general anesthetic, you should have a light meal before leaving the Clinic. You should also have a responsible adult stay with you at home for 24 hours after the procedure.
Before you leave the Clinic, we’ll give you the following:
- a take-home pack of prescribed medication
- any medication you brought with you to hospital
- written advice on your continued recovery
- a letter for your GP
If appropriate, a mobility aid such as crutches can be loaned to you. (We require a refundable deposit for this.)
Once you’re home
If you’ve had a day procedure, you may feel drowsy and have some discomfort. We recommend that you do not return to work the same day. Instead, rest quietly at home in a relaxing environment with easy access to telephone and bathroom.
General anesthetics can make you feel dizzy and nauseous. Follow these guidelines for 24 hours afterwards:
- don’t drive or operate machinery
- don’t do anything requiring skill or judgement
- don’t make important decisions
- don’t consume alcohol or take sleeping tablets
If you have any immediate concerns after leaving the Clinic, call us on 028 9066 1212 and speak to the nurse in charge, who will contact your consultant if required.
