Discharge after my surgery

For 24 hours after a general anaesthetic, you should:

Have a responsible adult with you.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Take things gently including having time off work until you feel fully recovered.

You should not:

If you remain in hospital longer than is necessary you are at far greater risk of losing your independence or developing complications such as infections or DVT (deep vein thrombosis).
From the day you are admitted to hospital, the staff involved in your care will work together with you and your relatives/carers to assess your needs in preparation for leaving hospital.
On the first day of your stay you will receive an estimated date of discharge (EDD) which may change as your care progresses.
As part of your treatment it may be necessary for you to move to another ward, sometimes at short notice, but you and your relatives/carers will be given as much information as possible.
Before you leave hospital you will be given a limited supply of any medication that is required and any changes that have been made will be explained to you.
You will be given a written discharge summary which includes details of your medication and any changes. Please also take a copy of this to your next GP appointment.

These may include any of the following options:

Returning to your usual place of residence with no additional support.
Returning home with either short-term or long-term support services in place. Please let us know as soon as possible if you already have support services in place.
Moving to a short-term rehabilitation or intermediate care setting as close to your home as possible.
Moving to alternative housing or care home.