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Before you have any treatment your doctor will talk to you about your medical condition - why you need the treatment, the benefits and risks, and what other types of treatment are available. Ask if you are unsure about any treatment or have any questions. It is important you fully understand your treatment.
You will be asked for your consent before any treatment, and will be given a consent form to read. You may want to talk this over with others before you give your consent. When you fully understand the treatment, you will be asked to sign the consent form.
The doctor or nurse will tell you what time you are having your treatment and anything you need to do beforehand, such as stop eating or drinking, including chewing gum and water (sometimes called fasting).
A nurse will go with you to the operating theatre or treatment room.
A doctor or nurse will talk you through what will happen and explain what to expect. They will introduce you to any staff involved in your treatment.
If you have a general anaesthetic you will usually wake up in the Recovery Room and will be monitored by a nurse before being taken to the ward.
After your treatment a doctor or nurse will advise you on any care you need. They will tell you when you can go home and advise when you next need to see a doctor.
In an emergency, if the hospital cannot provide the treatment you need, you may be transferred to another hospital that can treat you. If this is needed your doctor will discuss this with you and/or your family.
Generally friends and relatives will be asked to wait for you in a waiting area or asked to return to collect you after your treatment.
However, in certain circumstances such as if the patient is non-English speaking or the patient has special needs, a carer or relative may accompany them if the doctor allows.
As you may be delayed or feel tired/uncomfortable after treatment, it is best if children are cared for away from the hospital until you are home. Parents of children having treatment are encouraged to stay with their child at all times except during surgery.
Yes. If you would like a second opinion about your health care please speak with your doctor and this can be arranged.
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