Preparing for your operation
There are a number of things you can do beforehand to prepare for your operation to make your stay in hospital and your return home go as smoothly as possible:
- Take responsibility for finding out as much as you can about what your operation involves – there is a wealth of information on the internet or ask your hospital what leaflets or videos they may have that you could look at.
- Ensure you arrange transport back from the hospital as you will not be allowed to drive yourself home; line up a friend or relative to help you at home for a week or two.
- Make simple preparations around the home to make the transition as easy as possible – before you leave, put your TV remote control, radio, telephone, medications, tissues, address book and a glass on a table next to where you will spend most of your time when you come out of hospital.
- Stock up on food that is easy to prepare such as frozen meals, cans and staples such as rice and pasta.
- Before leaving home, have a long bath or shower, cut your nails (remove any nail polish), wash your hair and put on freshly washed clothes. This helps prevent unwanted bacteria coming into hospital with you and complicating your care.
Important: The information and guidance provided here is general in nature and should not be considered as medical advice in any way. You should always seek detailed advice from a qualified medical practitioner.
