Coming in for surgery
Preparation for your surgery
It is important that you prepare for your surgery by following the instructions provided to avoid your surgery being cancelled. This includes when to fast, medications to stop and anything you have been told to bring on the day of surgery. If you do not follow your instructions correctly your operation may be cancelled. You will be contacted by a theatre nurse 1-2 days before your surgery to confirm that you are able to proceed.
Your surgery
Admission
On arrival, visit the Admissions Centre located on Ground floor of the hospital near the main entrance. After you have completed your paperwork and clarified your personal details are correct, you will be directed to the Day Procedure Unit located on Level 2. A Redcliffe Hospital volunteer will be able to assist you with directions or escort you to the right area.
Day Procedure Unit
When you arrive at the Day Procedure Unit you will prepare for surgery and change into a surgical gown. The nurse will check your personal details, put an identification bracelet on you, take your blood pressure and temperature and go through a list of questions. We understand this is an anxious time for you, however your support person may not enter the preparation area.
After surgery
Going home on the day of surgery
If you are going home on the same day as your surgery, you will be taken back to the recovery area where you are monitored, provided with a light snack and your support person is contacted.
You’ll receive your discharge and follow up information to ensure you have an easy transition back home. In the following days, a nurse will contact you to ask about your recovery and answer any questions you may have.
Staying longer (ward)
If you are staying longer you will be transferred to a ward. Staff will help you with your post-operative needs and care for you while you recover.
When you’re well enough to leave, you’ll receive your discharge and follow up information to ensure you have an easy transition back home. Discharge is generally before 10am, please ensure your transport home is arranged for this time. You may be sent to the transit lounge while you wait. Information provided may include:
- any follow-up outpatient appointments
- medicines and prescriptions
- arrangements for any community support services
- any equipment or aids you need at home.
Concerns after surgery
If you have any concerns about your health after you leave hospital, contact your general practitioner or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). If you suddenly become unwell, call the hospital ward and speak with the staff, or go to the hospital Emergency Department.
What to bring
Each time you visit us
- Your Medicare card
- Private health insurance card (if you want to use it)
- Health Care Card and/or concession card (if you have one)
- Current medications (prescription, over the counter and herbal medicine)
- Relevant x-rays, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports
- Glasses, hearing and mobility aids
For a day procedure
- A responsible adult carer to stay with you to hear instructions, help you and take you home
- Copy of Advanced Healthcare Directive or Enduring Power of Attorney (if you have one)
- A jacket or cardigan in case you get cold
- Slippers or shoes (low-heeled, closed-in, non-slip, adjustable and firm fitting around the foot)
Staying overnight or longer
- A dressing gown or cardigan, sleepwear or comfortable day clothes
- Slippers and shoes (low heel, closed-in, non-slip, adjustable and firm fitting around the foot)
- Your toiletries and personal items
- Copy of Advanced Healthcare Directive or Enduring Power of Attorney if you have one
- Something to read or do during your stay
- Medical devices required for your care (e.g. CPAP machine)
- Do not bring large amounts of cash or valuables such as jewellery, watches or other items of value to you