Day Surgery
A Guide To Day Surgery
We understand that for many of our patients, this is the first time they have experienced having a procedure in a day surgery.
We hope to provide you with a clear explanation of what to expect from your visit to the Day Surgery Unit at St George Private.
Introducing Day Surgery Unit
The Day Surgery Unit is located on the ground floor of the hospital and includes:
- A reception and waiting lounge
- 20 pre-operative and post-operative beds
- 5 first stage recovery beds
- Children’s playroom
- Comfortable discharge lounge
Pre-operative preparation
The nurse may ask you to get changed into a gown and place you in a bed or the lounge.
Your belongings will be delivered to your room so please try and bring small bags with you. You will return to the same bed after your operation and will be taken to the Recovery Unit so your belongings will be with you, but not secured. Should you wish to secure your belongings, a small amount of lockers are available for your use.
We recommend that you leave your valuables at home or with your support person or visitors.
IMPORTANT: If you are taking any medications please bring them with you in their original packaging.
Please note that nurses will admit patients according to the order of your Doctor’s operating list. Even though operating lists are carefully planned, emergencies can occur and the order of the list is sometimes changed.
Patients in the Day Surgery Unit
For Parents:
We appreciate and encourage your involvement in your child’s care. As parents you know your child better than anyone and your presence is of great value during your child’s stay in hospital. When your child goes to the operating theatre, you may accompany them into the holding bay.
When your child wakes up in Recovery, you may be called to sit with them so please ensure that the nursing staff know where you are and we have your mobile number in case we cannot find you.
Playroom:
There is a playroom available for children. If your child has a favourite toy, we request that you bring it with you, ensuring it is labelled.
Meals:
We will offer patients something to eat after they have had their surgery. If you or your child has allergies please let us know and we will arrange for a special diet. If your child is on a special formula or has their own feeding cup or bottle, we strongly request that you bring it with you as we do not have the facilities to provide you with an alternative.
How long will I wait before my surgery?
Your Surgeon decides which time he wants you to come to hospital. The length of time you have to wait before surgery will depend on the length of time the case will take in front of you. This can vary depending on the type of surgery.
There are 12 operating theatres at St George Private and patients will be admitted depending on their place on their list. Please be assured that you have not been forgotten. The nursing staff will be concentrating on preparing patients who are going to theatre next.
How long will my surgery take?
This will depend on the type of surgery you are having, but if your surgery takes at least 1 hour, you will also spend 1-2 hours in the Recovery Unit before discharge. Please refer to the Flow chart for more information.
Following Your Procedure
After a period of time in the recovery area, you will stay in the Day Surgery unit between 2-4 hours depending on your procedure and how you feel.
When you are feeling well and meet the discharge criteria, you will be escorted by a nurse to the Discharge Lounge to wait for your transport home.
Preparing to Leave
A nurse will contact the escort or pick up person you nominated and will be given instructions about when and where to pick you up.
The nurse will give you discharge information and answer any questions you may have.
Please ensure you make a follow up appointment with your Doctor. If you need a medical certificate, please contact your Doctor. A nurse will contact your designated transport person to give them a discharge time.
Your Questions Answered
Can I bring food and drinks into Day Surgery?
No. As you are preparing for a surgical procedure, you will not be able to eat anything beforehand. Accordingly there is no food or drink allowed in Day Surgery. Please refer to your pre-admission handbook for further information.
You will be given a light diet and refreshments after your procedure, however if you have any special dietary requirements please let your admission nurse know so they can organise this.
Your support person
Most people arrive at Day Surgery with a support person. To maintain safety, patient confidentiality, privacy and comfort for our patients, your support person may not be permitted into Day Surgery.
Your support person is welcome to sit in the reception area and the nurses will keep them informed of your progress.
If your support person prefers to leave the hospital while you are having your operation, please remind them that they need to check with the nurse before leaving the hospital to ensure we have their contact details should we need to contact them for further information about you.
Extending Our Care
Depending on how you feel when you leave, one of our nurses may call you the next day to make sure that you are feeling well. However, please feel free to call us if you have any concerns about your operation/procedure on (02) 9598 5087 between 6am-9pm or the After Hours Manager on: (02) 9598 5555 after 9pm.