Going home after surgery

When you leave hospital after a ward stay, you will generally be able to make your own way home via public transport or your own arranged transport. However, for day case surgery, or where you have had an anaesthetic the same day that you are discharged, it is your responsibility to arrange transport and for a responsible adult to stay with you overnight.

Plan your discharge well in advance of arriving at the hospital and try to find someone who is flexible in case your date/time of discharge changes. This way, you won’t be anxious about who will take you home.

If, because of a medical condition, you require an ambulance to pick you up from the hospital when you are discharged, the ward team will arrange this.

On most wards, you will be discharged when the clinical staff says you are fit to go home - this can be at different times of the day depending on test results and assessments. There are large numbers of patients admitted and discharged every day. It may therefore be necessary for you to vacate your bed early on the morning of discharge. If so, you may be moved to a discharge lounge in the hospital before going home.

A supply and explanation of your current medication will be given to you or your family/carer by the nurse. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, please speak to the nurse caring for you.

In general, following minor operations, any pain can be controlled by using a mild pain-reliever such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (if you are able to tolerate it), which you should ensure you have ready at home. Your nurse will discuss pain control with you prior to discharge. If you find that your pain is not controlled when you are following the advice you have been given, please contact your GP.

Sick notes are not provided by the hospital. You will be required to self-certify your absence with your employer, and then you will need to arrange an appointment with your GP if you require a further sick note.

The Discharge Summary is a document sent to your GP within 24 hours of your discharge. It details the reason for your hospital stay, any tests you have undergone, and any further treatment or appointments you may require. You will receive an After Visit Summary with important information.

If any follow-up treatment is required, arrangements will normally be made before you leave the ward. If this is not possible, you will be sent a letter advising you of the date, time and location of your follow-up appointment.