After you arrive
We will measure your weight and take you to your allocated bay or room. If you need to have someone with you while you are in hospital, please tell us so we can allocate you an appropriate room with space for them.
The nurse will check your details and put a wristband on your wrist. This is so we can identify you.
If you have brought your own medication with you, we will label it and keep it securely for you.
We will take observations and check your blood pressure, temperature, heart rate and respiration. We will measure your legs for Thrombo Embolus Deterrent stockings (TEDs) if needed. We will explain what will happen during the day.
The Anaesthetist and Surgeon will speak to you. If you have any questions about your procedure, this is the right time to ask them. The Anaesthetist will discuss your general health and anaesthetic, and the Surgeon will discuss the actual operation with you and ask for your consent.
If you want to discuss anything after you sign your consent form, please ask your nurse to contact the Surgeon, who can answer your queries.
When you are ready and you are next on the list, the Anaesthetic Practitioner will collect you from your bay or room. A nurse or health care assistant may accompany you. We will confirm your details with you.
Before you go to theatre
We may ask you to arrive early to allow time to prepare for surgery, and for the Anaesthetist to see you before you go to theatre.
Your position on the operating list may change. This can happen when an operation takes longer than expected or when a patient's surgery must be cancelled.
You may wait quite some time before going to theatre. Your assigned nurse will keep you updated on when your surgery is likely to happen.
We understand that waiting for surgery can make you very nervous. Please approach any member of staff if you have questions.
Fit Note
If you require a Statement of Fitness for Work, please ask your nurse before you go to theatre, so as not to delay your discharge later in the day.
Belongings and valuables
Please ask a relative or friend to take care of your belongings, especially valuables. If you are staying in hospital, they can bring a bag back for you later.
Any belongings you have with you will be kept in our cupboard and we will give them back after your surgery. If you are staying in hospital, we can bring them to your ward in the evening.
Staff and volunteers
We understand that coming to hospital can feel daunting and confusing, no matter your age or how many times you have visited before.
Our staff wear visible identity badges at all times and are always happy to help you find where you need to go.
Volunteers are on site to support you during your visit. They are easily identifiable by their uniforms and can help you find your way and answer queries.
Visitors
There are limited facilities in our reception area for relatives and friends to wait - please wait in the public areas or café areas in the hospital, or return home if possible.
We do not have facilities for children - they should only be brought to reception except when relatives and friends are dropping off or collecting patients.
Refreshments
Most of our patients are not permitted to eat or drink, so please, do not eat or drink in our reception area.
If you need refreshments please visit:
