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What to Expect on the Day of Your Operation
Arrival at the Hospital
On the day of your operation, you will be asked to arrive at the hospital at a specific time. This usually involves checking in at the reception, where you may need to provide personal information and your NHS number. Ensure you have your hospital letter and any necessary identification with you.
Pre-Operative Procedures
Once you are checked in, you will be directed to the pre-operative area. Here, a nurse will take your vital signs, including your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. They may also ask you questions about your medical history and any medications you are taking. You might be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewellery, glasses, or dentures.
Meeting the Surgical Team
Before your operation, you will meet your surgeon and anaesthetist. The surgeon will go over the procedure with you, explaining the steps and risks involved. The anaesthetist will discuss the type of anaesthesia you will receive and answer any questions you may have. This is a good time to address any last-minute concerns.
Anaesthesia and Surgery
When it is time for your surgery, you will be taken to the operating theatre. If you are having general anaesthesia, the anaesthetist will administer it at this time. You will be monitored closely throughout the procedure. If you are having local or regional anaesthesia, only the relevant part of your body will be numbed. The surgery duration can vary, and you may be in the operating theatre for longer than just the procedure time due to preparation and recovery needs.
Recovery Room
After your operation, you will be moved to the recovery room where nurses will monitor your vital signs as you wake up from the anaesthesia. You might feel groggy, nauseous, or experience some pain. The nurses can administer pain relief if needed. It is essential to follow their instructions to ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.
Post-Operative Care
Once you are stable, you will be transferred to a ward or given discharge instructions if you had a day surgery. Your post-operative care plan will include guidelines on activities, diet, medication, and wound care. It is crucial to follow these instructions to promote healing and avoid complications. You will also be informed about any follow-up appointments.
Going Home
If you are discharged on the same day, ensure you have someone to accompany you home, as you may not be able to drive or use public transport on your own. Make arrangements for someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours post-surgery. Rest is vital, and you should take adequate time off work and other activities as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Remember, each surgery is unique, and your experience may vary. Do not hesitate to ask questions and voice any concerns to your healthcare team at any point during the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I arrive at the hospital?
Please arrive at the hospital at the time specified in your pre-operative letter or communication. It is usually 2-3 hours before your scheduled surgery time.
Can I eat or drink before my operation?
You should not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery unless advised differently by your healthcare team. However, you may be allowed to have small sips of water.
What should I bring with me to the hospital?
You should bring photo ID, any relevant medical paperwork, a list of medications you are currently taking, comfortable clothing, and any personal care items you might need.
Will I meet my surgeon on the day of the surgery?
Yes, you will usually meet your surgeon and anaesthetist on the day of the operation to discuss any final details and answer any last-minute questions you may have.
Can family or friends accompany me to the hospital?
Yes, family or friends can accompany you to the hospital; however, they might not be allowed in certain pre-operative or recovery areas.
What should I wear to the hospital on the day of my operation?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to change out of. You will change into a surgical gown before your operation.
Will I be put to sleep for my operation?
This depends on the type of surgery you are having. General anaesthesia, local anaesthesia, or regional anaesthesia (like a spinal or epidural) might be used. Your anaesthetist will discuss this with you.
What should I do if I am feeling unwell on the day of my surgery?
Contact the hospital as soon as possible if you are feeling unwell. They will advise you on whether it is safe to proceed with the surgery.
How long will the operation take?
The duration of the operation will depend on the type of surgery you are having. Your surgeon will provide an estimated time beforehand.
Where do I go upon arriving at the hospital?
Follow the instructions provided in your pre-operative information. You will likely need to check in at a reception area or a specific ward.
Can I take my regular medications on the day of surgery?
You will receive specific instructions on which medications to take or avoid on the day of surgery. This information will be discussed during your pre-operative assessment.
What happens if there is a delay on the day of surgery?
Delays can happen due to various reasons. The hospital staff will keep you informed and updated if there are any changes to the schedule.
How will I manage pain after the surgery?
You will be provided with pain relief options after the surgery. The medical team will ensure you are comfortable during the recovery process.
What should I do with my personal belongings during surgery?
It is best to leave valuable items at home. Any essential items can be stored in a locker or given to a family member or friend for safekeeping.
When can I go home after my surgery?
The discharge time will depend on the type of surgery and your recovery. Some patients can go home the same day, while others may need to stay overnight or longer.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Having an operation at the Children’s Centre
- NHS - Operations for children Information from the NHS about operations for children, including pre-operative assessments, what happens on the day of the operation, and post-operative care.
- NHS - What to expect when your child has an operation An NHS guide on what to expect when your child is undergoing an operation, detailing how to prepare your child, what will happen during the operation, and the recovery process.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital - Preparing your child for surgery Great Ormond Street Hospital's comprehensive guide on preparing a child for surgery, including explanations of the surgical process, coping tips, and what to bring to the hospital.
- Together for Short Lives - Children's operations A UK-based charity, Together for Short Lives, offers resources and support for families with children who need operations, focusing on palliative care and support throughout the surgical process.
Useful links from: Your Operation at East Surrey Hospital
- East Surrey Hospital - Patient Information Official patient information guides from East Surrey Hospital, providing details about preparing for your operation and what to expect during your stay.
- NHS - Preparing for Surgery NHS guide on how to prepare for surgery, including preoperative assessment, what to bring to the hospital, and how to plan for your recovery.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Preparing for Surgery Macmillan Cancer Support offers information and support for patients preparing for surgery, focusing on physical and emotional wellbeing.
- Mind - Going into Hospital Mental health charity Mind provides advice on how to manage your mental health when going into hospital, including what to expect and how to find support.
Useful links from: Inpatient Surgery at North Bristol NHS Trust
- North Bristol NHS Trust - Inpatient Surgery Information on planned admissions and inpatient surgery procedures at North Bristol NHS Trust. Provides guidelines, pre-operative and post-operative care, and contact details for further assistance.
- NHS - Preparing for Surgery A comprehensive guide by NHS on how to prepare for surgery. Includes tips on managing anxiety, what to bring to the hospital, understanding the consent process, and information on various types of surgery.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Surgery for Cancer Detailed information from Macmillan Cancer Support about surgical treatments for cancer patients, including what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Offers support resources and contact details for further help.
- British Heart Foundation - Heart Surgery Resources and guidance from the British Heart Foundation regarding heart surgery. Covers different types of heart surgery, preparation, recovery, and lifestyle changes post-surgery.
Useful links from: What to expect when visiting our hospitals for surgery | Theatres
- NHS - Preparing for Surgery Comprehensive guide by the NHS on what to expect and how to prepare for surgery. Covers pre-operation, during the operation, and recovery.
- NHS - Your Hospital Stay Information from the NHS about what happens when you stay in the hospital, including what to bring, what to expect, and your rights.
- Royal College of Anaesthetists - Patient Information Resources provided by the Royal College of Anaesthetists offering detailed information on what to expect before, during, and after receiving anesthesia.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Surgery Guides and support from Macmillan Cancer Support focusing on surgery for cancer patients, including pre-operation tips and recovery advice.
Useful links from: Having an anaesthetic for your operation - for over 8s
- NHS - General anaesthesia NHS information on general anaesthesia, including how it is carried out, what to expect, risks, and recovery tips.
- NHS - Anaesthesia overview Comprehensive guide by the NHS on different types of anaesthesia, their uses, procedures, and potential side effects.
- Association of Anaesthetists - Information for children Resources from the Association of Anaesthetists specifically aimed at children over 8 years old, explaining anaesthesia and what to expect.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital - Anaesthesia Details from Great Ormond Street Hospital about general anaesthetic procedures for children, including preparation, anesthesia process, and recovery.
Useful links from: Having an operation in Oxford Children's Hospital with YiPpEe
- Oxford Children's Hospital - OUH Information about the Oxford Children's Hospital, a part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, offering comprehensive medical care for children.
- YiPpEe - Oxford University Hospitals YiPpEe (Your Pre-Operative Plan for an Excellent Experience) helps children and their families prepare for an operation at the Oxford Children's Hospital.
- NHS Choices - Preparing Your Child for Hospital NHS guide on how to prepare your child for a hospital stay or operation, offering tips and advice to reduce anxiety and stress.
- Children's Health and Wellbeing - Action for Children Action for Children supports children's health and wellbeing by providing key resources and information to parents, helping them support their children through medical procedures.
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