Before you come into hospital
Surgery can be hard on your body and mind, so taking care of yourself and being at your best before your procedure will reduce risks.
With better health you can have a faster and stronger recovery, plus a shorter hospital stay.
There are a number of things you can do to help get ready for surgery and to put yourself in the strongest possible position to recover well and regain independence.
We have a range of resources and information below to help you.
The Get set for surgery website provides valuable information and advice to help you prepare for your operation.
And Fitter Better Sooner video can also provide information and support to help you.
We encourage all patients attending pre-assessment clinics to use these resources to help prepare for your surgery.
What to do on the day
- In advance of coming to hospital, you will need to arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you home and to stay in contact with you for 24 hours following your procedure.
- Please shower or bathe, and remove make-up, nail varnish, gel/ acrylic nails, jewellery and piercings before coming in.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that you can also travel home in.
- The instructions below about eating and drinking on the day of your procedure must be followed, to avoid it being cancelled.
- It is important to stay hydrated with water and please do not drink any alcohol for 24 hours before you come in.
