Inpatient Surgery Pathway

Your inpatient surgical journey

OUTPATIENT CLINIC
Seen by Consultant Surgeon (or team member) in an outpatient clinic.

  • A shared decision is made that surgery is required.
  • You are added to the waiting list.

What you can do:

  • Plan how you will manage after surgery and how you will get home.
  • Attend your preassessment appointment.

NURSE LED PREASSESSMENT
The preassessment takes place in the Day Surgery Unit.

Following your preassessment, there are 2 options.

SAME DAY

  • One-stop preassessment clinic is available: the opportunity to attend your preassessment on the same day that a decision is made for surgery.

APPOINTMENT

  • If this is not convenient you can arrange for an appointment for another day.
  • You may need further tests (e.g. blood tests, ECG) or have to have your case discussed with a Consultant Anaesthetist

FITNESS FOR SURGERY
This is a good time to make any lifestyle changes that will help you recover from surgery.

ADMISSION ON DAY OF SURGERY

ANAESTHETIC AND OPERATION

  • Once in theatre you will be taken to the anaesthetic room.
  • Number of options when being anaesthetised and these will be discussed with you.
  • You may be asked to remove personal items if it is felt they may interfere with your surgical procedure.
  • You will then be attached to vital monitoring equipment e.g. heart rate, blood pressure etc.

RECOVERY AREA
After surgery you will be transferred to the recovery unit where you will stay until your vital signs are stable.

POSTOPERATIVE WARD
You will be transferred to the appropriate ward for the level of care you require after your operation.

Here you will continue to gain independence with your mobility and self-care until you are ready for discharge.

DISCHARGE AND FOLLOW UP

  • You will be discharged when you can cope at home.
  • You may need follow up with a GP, community nurse or the specialist team.
  • You will be clearly informed about all arrangements needed.
  • Your GP will also be informed.