Question 1

Before Your Surgery

Accepted Answer

Arrange your home so that you can move around safely after surgery. If possible, avoid using stairs. Arrange for a family member or friend to help care for you and stay with you when you return home. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to change in and out of. Do not wear make-up or nail polish or apply creams on the day of surgery. If advised by your doctor, arrange a cane, walker or crutches before surgery. If you smoke, discuss stopping with your doctor before surgery and during your recovery. Maintain a healthy diet and a stable weight before surgery, as advised by your doctor. Your surgeon may ask you to attend the Anaesthesia Clinic before surgery for an assessment. This helps determine whether you are suitable for anaesthesia and surgery and whether any additional tests are required. Your anaesthesiologist will also discuss pain management with you. You may be asked to take certain medicines before surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions. You may also need to stop certain medicines before surgery. Discuss any changes to your medicines with your surgeon. Complete your admission arrangements and confirm your accommodation preference if required. Check your admission details, including your surgeon's name, admission time and ward or room location. If you feel unwell or have a fever on the day of surgery or in the days before surgery, contact your surgeon or the Hospital immediately. Your surgery may need to be rescheduled.

Question 2

What to Expect on the Day of Your Surgery

Accepted Answer

Arrive at the Hospital at the time provided to allow sufficient time for preparation. Arriving late may delay or postpone your surgery. Let the ward receptionist know when you arrive. Follow the instructions provided by your care team about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery. You will be asked to: Remove jewellery, including watches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets and nose rings. Remove make-up and nail polish. Remove dentures and/or braces. Avoid perfumes, deodorants and body lotions. You will receive an identification band for your wrist or ankle. Check that your information is correct and wear the band throughout your stay. You will be asked to change into hospital clothing. You may be asked the same questions by different members of your care team. This is part of the safety checks performed before surgery. Family members, attendants and visitors cannot accompany you into the surgery area. Your surgeon and anaesthesiologist may speak with you before surgery. You may receive medicine to help you relax before you are taken to the operating room. An intravenous (IV) catheter may be placed to allow fluids and medicines to be given through a vein. Depending on your health and the type of surgery, a urinary catheter may be inserted after you receive anaesthesia. If required, your care team will explain this to you. You may have some time to rest before surgery. Nursing staff will accompany you to the operating room. You will be informed if there are any delays.

Question 3

What to Expect in the Operating Room

Accepted Answer

Your anaesthesia will depend on your procedure and clinical needs. You may receive general anaesthesia or another form of anaesthesia that allows you to remain awake while preventing pain. The operating room team includes surgeons, assisting surgeons where required, nurses and technicians. The team follows sterile procedures during surgery. Sterile drapes, gowns, gloves and equipment are used as appropriate for your procedure. Disposable supplies are supplied sterile and stored in protective packaging. Reusable instruments are cleaned, inspected, packaged and sterilised before use. Your vital signs will be monitored throughout surgery. Depending on your procedure and clinical needs, monitoring may include heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, temperature, heart rhythm and blood oxygen levels.

Question 4

What to Expect After Your Surgery

Accepted Answer

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be monitored by doctors and nurses. Depending on your clinical needs, you may be transferred to a critical care area. The time you spend in recovery will depend on the type and length of your surgery. Family members are not permitted in the recovery room. You may experience shivering or nausea after anaesthesia. Your care team will assess and manage these symptoms as needed. Once you are stable, you will be moved to the ward or your room. You will likely have a surgical dressing over the incision. You may experience some discomfort or pain. Your care team will assess and manage your pain.

Question 5

When You Go Home After Your Surgery​​

Accepted Answer

Follow your surgeon's instructions for caring for your wound and dressing. Follow your surgeon's advice about positioning your body after surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions about physical activity, exercise, work and household activities during your recovery. Your recovery time will depend on the type of surgery and your individual circumstances. Follow the dietary and activity advice provided by your care team. Please also read the information on Prepare for Your Hospital Stay .