These pages are designed to help you to prepare for your admission to our Unit and to give you a brief outline of what to expect during your stay.
We want to do all we can to make your stay as safe, comfortable and stress-free as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to telephone the Day Surgery Unit directly on 01784 884127 / 01784 884609.
The nearest entrance is next to Outpatients at Ashford Hospital and not the main entrance.
- We operate a drop off and pick up service within the Day Surgery Unit so unfortunately relatives will not be encouraged to remain with you. However, when you arrive if you wish to discuss this matter further, please ask the Reception Staff to contact the Sister or Deputy Sister to discuss this matter further.
- It is important that you have nothing to eat or drink after the stated time as otherwise your procedure may not be carried out. This includes sweets, mints and chewing gum.
- You may be away from home for part or all of the day.
- If you are having a general anaesthetic or sedation, you must arrange for a responsible adult who can collect you from the Day Surgery Unit, take you home by car or taxi, and stay with you for 24 hours after your discharge from the Unit, from the time of your discharge.
- Following general anaesthetic or sedation, you may feel wide awake, but you may still be under the influence of the drugs used for at least 24 hours. Your reactions will be slower, your concentration and co-ordination may be affected, and you may suddenly feel light-headed or faint.
For these reasons, for the first 24 hours after your discharge, you must:
- Not drive a car, bicycle or any motorised vehicle.
- Not operate potentially dangerous machinery.
- Be cautious with electrical appliances and hot cookers.
- Not make important decisions.
On your admission, a contact number is available for the person accompanying you if they wish to find out how you are during your stay. However, nursing staff will contact your collector when you are ready to go home.
When you get home after your procedure, it is essential that you rest. It is possible you will feel tired for up to a week, with occasional lapses of concentration.
After your operation, you may need to be absent from work for a few days. This will vary depending on your operation or procedure. When you are discharged from the Unit, you will be given information about this and the Sickness Certificate, if required. If you require a Sick Certificate, please put in a request for this on admission.
