Other information

Consent

When a consultant, nurse or therapist asks you to agree to any form of examination or treatment, we understand that you always have a choice. It’s quite acceptable for you to say no or ask for more information.

Your consent is most important. So, when having any operation, we ask you to sign a consent form to show that you agree to the procedure and fully understand what will happen.

Leaving Hospital

Your consultant or qualified nurse will assess your fitness to leave hospital after your treatment.  We won’t discharge you from our care until we are sure you are ready. To help you begin your recovery, we’ll give you care advice and information specific to you and your procedure before you leave the hospital.
If you’ve had a general anaesthetic or sedation, you won’t be able to drive so you’ll need to ask someone to collect you. We’ll give the person coming to collect you a time to ring for information on when to pick you up.

Once you're back home

Once you return home, your recovery takes place at its own pace and every individual is different. We’ll give you recovery information relevant to your condition to take home with you. If you have any concerns or questions don’t hesitate to contact us – we’ll provide you with all the assistance you need. There are lots of different aspects to consider as part of your successful recovery and you’ll find that for a period, your day to day routine will change and you may feel tired. This is perfectly normal and you’ll recover in time.

It is generally advised that you should not drive for at least 24 hours after any operation and that you have a responsible adult with you during this time. In most cases you’ll be advised not to take alcohol or sedative drugs for the first 24 hours following your operation, unless prescribed.

Follow-up Appointments

Depending on the procedure you had, you may need a follow-up appointment with your consultant. You may also need to have stitches removed. You’ll be given information about these appointments before you go home or the details will be posted to you.

Other considerations

We value your personal needs and views and ask that you make us aware of any religious or spiritual requirements you may have. 

Chaperones - We offer chaperone services at all our hospitals. Just ask a member of staff when you arrive for your appointment.

Translation - Translation services are available at all our hospitals. If you need a translator please let us know when you are booking your appointment.

Smoking - Smoking is not permitted on the grounds of any of our hospitals.