Rest matters – even when you get home. It’s important that you have someone to care for you after you are discharged.
Same-day discharge
If you are going home on the day of your operation, it’s important to have someone with you. The effects of an anaesthetic can last for up to 24 hours, so during this time you should avoid driving, drinking alcohol, using any dangerous equipment, or signing important documents.
Please do not drive yourself home after discharge. Arrange for a relative or friend to take you or consider using a taxi. We recommend avoiding public transport such as buses or trains for your comfort and safety.
If you experience increased pain or feel unwell once you are home, please contact us straight away for advice. We are here to help you recover safely.
Overnight patients
If you are staying overnight, we aim to have you ready for discharge from your room by 10:00am on the day you are scheduled to go home. To make things easier, please arrange your transport in advance for this time. If this isn’t possible, you are welcome to relax in our discharge lounge until your transport arrives.
For your safety, you MUST NOT drive for 24 hours after surgery or an anaesthetic. Please ensure a responsible adult collects you and accompanies you home in a suitable vehicle. Public transport such as buses or trains is not recommended.
If you live alone, it’s important to arrange for a responsible adult to stay with you for at least 24 hours after discharge or consider staying with someone who can care for you. For some procedures, you may not be able to drive until your surgeon confirms it is safe to do so.
When you get home
We recommend that you rest and follow the specific instructions of your specialist and hospital staff. This will be included in the discharge summary given to you by our nursing staff upon your discharge from hospital.
Other helpful recovery information:
- Caring for surgical wounds (download .pdf)
- Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) (download .pdf) i.e. blood clots
- Preventing falls (download .pdf)
Follow-up appointments
Your follow-up appointments with the clinic nurse and your surgeon will be emailed to you. If you have any concerns or experience any problems before your scheduled appointment, please contact your GP, surgeon, their practice nurse or the hospital for advice.