Going toHospital

You’ll usually be admitted the day before surgery.

When you arrive, the admissions clerk will attend to the paperwork associated with your stay.

A nurse will perform a series of basic tests and observations, and will usually request your medical history, confirm your medication and ask about any known allergies. Remember to mention any herbal or homeopathic remedies you may be taking, as these can have interactions and side-effects too.

You’ll have to start your bowel preparation the day before the procedure. You may have a small plastic tube (called a cannula) inserted into a vein in your arm or hand, and an intravenous drip to ensure you stay hydrated during this process.

An anaesthetist will usually visit you the night before surgery to discuss which type of anaesthetic will be used. They'll also talk to you about the type of pain relief you'll be given after the operation.

If you haven’t already signed a consent form, you'll do so before the procedure.

Your procedure

What happens in the operating theatre.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.