WHAT TO BRING

• You will need to bring your pension/Medicare/healthfund cards.
• Please do not bring valuables with you (jewellery, excess cash, etc).
• Ensure all nail varnish is removed.
• We recommend that you wear loose comfortable clothing and comfortable flat shoes.

Please shower at home before admission using your usual soap and shampoo. Do not use any powder, perfume, cosmetics or deodorant.

ACCOUNTS

If you are fully insured your account will be assigned directly to your nominated health fund.  If you have an excess or co-payment as part of your health insurance you are required to pay these fees prior to or on admission.

FASTING TIMES AND MEDICATIONS

You will not be able to eat anything for six (6) hours before your surgery time. You may drink small amounts of water only up to three (3) hours before surgery time.

If you are undergoing a gastroscopy or colonoscopy you will require specific dietary instructions which you will need to follow carefully.

It is important to take morning heart, blood pressure and asthma medication with a small amount of water. All other medications may be omitted. Do not take aspirin or aspirin-based medication for one week prior to your admission unless specifically advised by your doctor. If you are a diabetic or have concerns about any medication you need to speak with your doctor.

PARKING

In Hervey Bay parking is directly in front of the hospital.

YOUR ADMISSION

Prior to admission you will need to arrange for a relative or friend to transport you to and from the hospital, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after your surgery. We also recommend that you arrange for a responsible adult to remain with you for the first night at home.

As space is limited for friends or relatives, it is preferable that where possible after you are admitted, the person who drops you off leaves and staff will contact them when you are ready to be picked up.

You will be given your admission time if you attend pre-admission. If you are unable to attend pre-admission you will be contacted the day before your surgery with your admission time.

After you confirm your details at Reception, you will be admitted by the nursing staff to the day surgery unit and prepared for your surgery.

The anaesthetist will examine you and take your medical history. There may be a wait between your admission and your surgery.

YOUR RECOVERY

After your surgery you will be transferred to Recovery and the nurse will monitor your blood pressure and pulse. You will be be assisted to sit in a recliner chair and offered refreshments. If you have had a general anaesthetic you will be required to remain in Recovery for two (2) hours, or for one (1) hour if you have had a sedation only. Your doctor may see you and answer any questions you may have.

YOUR DISCHARGE

As you will not be able to drive after the procedure we will contact your driver to collect you.

You will be given a discharge sheet and instruction sheet detailing any activity limitations, medications and follow up appointments.