Leaving Hospital
The length of your stay will be determined by many factors – your doctor and hospital staff will keep you informed of your progress at all times.
Planning for your care after your procedure can make a big difference to your recovery. It is important to think ahead and make sure you have enough support when you return home.
Discharge requirements and recommendations
- You are unable to drive after your procedure for 24 hours or as advised by your surgeon and/or anaesthetist. You must make arrangements for a responsible adult to drive you home or talk to a member of our team about a safe alternative.
- If you have had a day procedure and you live alone, you must plan for a responsible adult (over the age of 18) to care for you overnight.
- You should stay within a one hour journey of the hospital following your discharge.
Discharge time
Discharge time following a day procedure varies as it depends on your surgery and your recovery.
For patients who have stayed overnight, you should be prepared to leave NECH by 11am. If you foresee any problems with arranging transport or in-home care, please discuss this with your nurse.
At the time of discharge your nurse will:
- Return to you any medication and prescriptions brought into the hospital, as well as any new treatment commenced after admission
- Return all form of patient records provided on admission eg. Radiology imaging, x-rays, scans and ultrasound films
- Finalise arrangements for any community services or other help you may require
Should you have any questions or concerns about your discharge, please discuss these with your nurse.