Admissions

Specific information about your surgery or procedure is provided at a pre-admission appointment, by your doctor or in your admission letter. .

Your preparation

Your doctor will provide any special instructions you should follow before your surgery, particularly regarding fasting and medications.

Please check with your doctor if you need any specific care, equipment or medications after your surgery or procedure.

After having a general or local anaesthetic or sedation you should not drive a motor vehicle or operate any machinery for a minimum of 24 hours after your surgery or procedure. Therefore, you will need to organise for someone to take you home from day surgery.

What to bring

• Your Medicare card and concession cards such as the Safety Net Card and Department of Veterans’ Affairs Card
  
• Your health fund details
  
• Name and address of your general practitioner
  
• Emergency contact details of your next of kin
  
• Any X-rays or scans related to your condition
  
• A list of any current medications you are taking, including natural remedies and supplements
  
• A list of allergies to food or medications
  
• Details of your employer and the date, time and place of accident if your surgery or procedure is covered by Workers’ Compensation or motor injury insurance
  
• A book or magazine to read while you wait for your surgery or procedure
  
• Bring your personal items in a small bag that can fit into the limited storage space provided in patient rooms.

What not to bring

Please do not bring jewellery, valuables or excess cash to hospital. We do not accept responsibility for loss or damage of personal property.

What to expect when you are admitted

You will be admitted patients on the day of your planned surgery or procedure.

When you arrive at the day surgery, our caregivers will ensure all necessary admission requirements are complete. You will also be asked to confirm you have given written consent for the surgery or procedure.

You may need to wait in the patient lounge before having your surgery or procedure. We do everything possible to minimise your waiting times and keep you informed about any unforeseen delays.

Once admitted to the day surgery, you will be given a patient identification band to wear. Our caregivers will confirm your identification before providing a treatment or procedure, including giving medication.

After your surgery or procedure, nurses will monitor your recovery and perform regular observations such as blood pressure, oxygen levels and temperature.

Once you are awake, your nurse will inform you when it is safe to get out of bed and eat and drink. Your nurse will contact your nominated person to arrange for them to collect you.