coming into hospital for an operation · dressing gown. • some casual loose clothing to wear...

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Coming into hospital for an operation

Surgical DivisionPatient Information Leaflet

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Welcome to Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

We aim to provide the highest standards of care and hope that your stay will be as pleasant and comfortable as possible. If you have any questions please speak to a member of staff who will be happy to help.

This leaflet is designed to provide you with information which may help you to prepare for your admission.

What to do if you are unable to attend the hospital

If you are unable to accept the appointment offered, or you are unable to attend for any reason, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can offer the appointment to another patient.

Please use the contact number on your letter or telephone the hospital on 01253 300000 and ask for your Ward or Department.

Preparing to come into hospital

You will need to make arrangements to be admitted to hospital. There are lots of things to consider, here are a few reminders.

• Arrange your transport to get to hospital. If you need an ambulance book it at least a week before your admission date if possible. You should do this via your GP.

• Arrange for someone to look after your house and consider giving a spare key to someone you trust. If you have pets these will need caring for whilst you are away.

What to bring into hospital with you

To make your stay more comfortable you should bring the following personal items with you:

Toiletries and essentials such as:

• Hairbrush, comb and shampoo.

• Toothpaste, toothbrush, denture pot, denture cleaner.

• Soap, face wash, shower gel, moisturiser, deodorant.

• Towels, face cloth, sponge.

• Hand wipes, tissues etc.

• Shaving equipment.

• Sanitary care.

• Also a change of nightwear and underwear, slippers and dressing gown.

• Some casual loose clothing to wear during the day, as you will be encouraged to mobilise once you are able.

• All tablets and medication that you are taking. Please bring them in their original containers.

• Your benefit / pensions book number.

• Names, addresses and phone numbers of your next of kin and your GP details.

• A list of questions or concerns you may wish to talk about with your medical team.

• Books, magazines, knitting, writing material and small change for the telephone, newspapers etc and card to buy TV time.

• Any aid such as hearing aid, spectacles, magnifying glass, walking stick, zimmer frame, wheelchair etc.

• This leaflet.

If you forget to bring any of these items with you, please speak to a member of staff.

If you do bring personal items, please keep these safe and store them safely. Where possible please label them. Please limit items as locker space is limited.

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Welcome to Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

We aim to provide the highest standards of care and hope that your stay will be as pleasant and comfortable as possible. If you have any questions please speak to a member of staff who will be happy to help.

This leaflet is designed to provide you with information which may help you to prepare for your admission.

What to do if you are unable to attend the hospital

If you are unable to accept the appointment offered, or you are unable to attend for any reason, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can offer the appointment to another patient.

Please use the contact number on your letter or telephone the hospital on 01253 300000 and ask for your Ward or Department.

Preparing to come into hospital

You will need to make arrangements to be admitted to hospital. There are lots of things to consider, here are a few reminders.

• Arrange your transport to get to hospital. If you need an ambulance book it at least a week before your admission date if possible. You should do this via your GP.

• Arrange for someone to look after your house and consider giving a spare key to someone you trust. If you have pets these will need caring for whilst you are away.

What to bring into hospital with you

To make your stay more comfortable you should bring the following personal items with you:

Toiletries and essentials such as:

• Hairbrush, comb and shampoo.

• Toothpaste, toothbrush, denture pot, denture cleaner.

• Soap, face wash, shower gel, moisturiser, deodorant.

• Towels, face cloth, sponge.

• Hand wipes, tissues etc.

• Shaving equipment.

• Sanitary care.

• Also a change of nightwear and underwear, slippers and dressing gown.

• Some casual loose clothing to wear during the day, as you will be encouraged to mobilise once you are able.

• All tablets and medication that you are taking. Please bring them in their original containers.

• Your benefit / pensions book number.

• Names, addresses and phone numbers of your next of kin and your GP details.

• A list of questions or concerns you may wish to talk about with your medical team.

• Books, magazines, knitting, writing material and small change for the telephone, newspapers etc and card to buy TV time.

• Any aid such as hearing aid, spectacles, magnifying glass, walking stick, zimmer frame, wheelchair etc.

• This leaflet.

If you forget to bring any of these items with you, please speak to a member of staff.

If you do bring personal items, please keep these safe and store them safely. Where possible please label them. Please limit items as locker space is limited.

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Items we advise you NOT to bring

Please do not bring or keep the following items with you whilst in hospital:

• Any valuables or large amounts of money. You will need some money or a credit / debit card to use the bedside entertainment system. Please keep this to a minimum.

• Jewellery – Please limit the amount of items you bring with you. If you arrive with any valuables it may be advisable to put them into the hospital safe. Please discuss this with a member of staff when you arrive.

• Too many items of clothing. There is limited space on the wards and you will have difficulty storing large amounts of clothing. Please ask a friend or relative to take home any suitcases or big bags after you arrive.

• Alcohol, illegal drugs, cigarettes, tobacco or e-cigarettes. The hospital has a no smoking policy which must be adhered to at all times.

• Perishable food items other than fruit.

Travel information

Trains

Blackpool North is the nearest railway station to Blackpool Victoria

hospital. For further travel information and timetables including Stagecoach, visit www.traveline.org.uk or Tel 0871 200 2233.

Buses

For current bus services contact Blackpool Transport on 01253 473001 or www.blackpooltransport.com.

Car Parking

A travel leaflet including a site plan which identifies the location of wards and car parks is available from the Trust Travel Website www. bfwhospitals.nhs.uk.

When parking in pay and display car parks, please display your ticket clearly on your windscreen. At peak times you may have to wait for a space to become available. However, there are usually spaces in the pay on foot car park (over 200 spaces).

Registered Disabled Drivers

There are designated spaces close to hospital entrances for registered disabled badge holders which now incur a charge.

Parking Rules

Vehicles in breach of car parking rules, which are displayed in the car parks, may be subject to a Parking Enforcement Notice.

For further car parking information, the Car Park Office is situated on the ground floor of the main entrance car park or can be contacted by telephone 01253 956970.

Planning your stayMy to do list

I know my expected date for going home.

I have informed the relevant people where I will be.

I have all my medication ready to take with me.

I have packed a small bag with toiletries.

I have arranged my transport for getting THERE and BACK.

I have checked I have the right equipment and support for when I get home.

I have some non-perishable foods in for my return home, including long life or dried milk.



Write a list of questions I want to ask so I don’t forget.

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Items we advise you NOT to bring

Please do not bring or keep the following items with you whilst in hospital:

• Any valuables or large amounts of money. You will need some money or a credit / debit card to use the bedside entertainment system. Please keep this to a minimum.

• Jewellery – Please limit the amount of items you bring with you. If you arrive with any valuables it may be advisable to put them into the hospital safe. Please discuss this with a member of staff when you arrive.

• Too many items of clothing. There is limited space on the wards and you will have difficulty storing large amounts of clothing. Please ask a friend or relative to take home any suitcases or big bags after you arrive.

• Alcohol, illegal drugs, cigarettes, tobacco or e-cigarettes. The hospital has a no smoking policy which must be adhered to at all times.

• Perishable food items other than fruit.

Travel information

Trains

Blackpool North is the nearest railway station to Blackpool Victoria

hospital. For further travel information and timetables including Stagecoach, visit www.traveline.org.uk or Tel 0871 200 2233.

Buses

For current bus services contact Blackpool Transport on 01253 473001 or www.blackpooltransport.com.

Car Parking

A travel leaflet including a site plan which identifies the location of wards and car parks is available from the Trust Travel Website www. bfwhospitals.nhs.uk.

When parking in pay and display car parks, please display your ticket clearly on your windscreen. At peak times you may have to wait for a space to become available. However, there are usually spaces in the pay on foot car park (over 200 spaces).

Registered Disabled Drivers

There are designated spaces close to hospital entrances for registered disabled badge holders which now incur a charge.

Parking Rules

Vehicles in breach of car parking rules, which are displayed in the car parks, may be subject to a Parking Enforcement Notice.

For further car parking information, the Car Park Office is situated on the ground floor of the main entrance car park or can be contacted by telephone 01253 956970.

Planning your stayMy to do list

I know my expected date for going home.

I have informed the relevant people where I will be.

I have all my medication ready to take with me.

I have packed a small bag with toiletries.

I have arranged my transport for getting THERE and BACK.





Write a list of questions I want to ask so I don’t forget.

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Some of these questions may be:

• When can I have a shower or bath?

• When can I drive again?

• When can I go back to work?

• Who can I contact if I have any concerns or questions when I get home?

• I know where to go on my day of admission

• I have the following details?

I am expecting to stay in hospital for ____________________ nights.

I can eat and drink normally until _______________________________

I can have clear fluids until: ____________________________________

I must be nil by mouth from: ___________________________________

Medication instructions: _______________________________________

Preparing for your admission to hospital

Smoking and Alcohol

Please note this is a non smoking hospital

If you do smoke or drink please use this as an opportunity to stop or cut down. This helps speed up the healing process, your recovery and reduces the risk of complications. For smoking cessation advice contact Quitline, your GP or local pharmacist. Quitline: 0300 123 1044

If you require support with stopping alcohol please ask the nurses to contact our Hospital Alcohol Liaison Team (HALS).

You will receive your admission to hospital details by post. You will normally be admitted on the day of surgery, but occasionally the day before surgery. If this is necessary you will have been informed of this beforehand.

Your admission date and time is not guaranteed, as Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust operates an emergency service, patients requiring emergency care take preference. If the hospital is full or your surgeon has to deal with emergency cases, your admission may be deferred, however this is extremely rare.

All patients undergoing elective surgery will have their anaesthetic management considered either by a member of the surgical staff or a nurse practitioner or an Anaesthetist. This may take place in a pre-operative assessment clinic or on the day of admission. There are different types of anaesthetic, which the Anaesthetist will discuss with you. He/she will advise you on the best option for you.

You will be admitted to the Surgical Admission Unit or Day Surgery Unit / Surgical Ward, where you will be seen by the Doctors and the Anaesthetist. The nursing staff will prepare you for Theatre and escort you to Theatre when you are ready. Following Theatre you will be transferred to a Ward until you are ready to be discharged home.

It is important that you bring all your current medication in with you so that the correct medicines can be prescribed. This medication will be returned to you.

If you are having bowel or breast surgery you will be visited by a Nurse Specialist who will discuss the operation and after care with you. You will probably have met your Nurse in clinic but if not you will meet her on the ward.

You must stop drinking fluid TWO hours prior to your admission for surgery, but you may take a small sip of water to help swallow tablets if necessary. The nurses MAY offer you a drink of water once they know a more exact time for your operation.

You will not be allowed to eat anything for several hours before the operation. This will help ensure your stomach is empty and prevent vomiting during the operation. The starvation rules apply to procedures involving a general anaesthetic (where you are asleep and unware of what is going on) and also regional anaesthetics (where part of your body is made pain free). You will be given specific information about eating and drinking by your nurse.

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Some of these questions may be:

• When can I have a shower or bath?

• When can I drive again?

• When can I go back to work?

• Who can I contact if I have any concerns or questions when I get home?

• I know where to go on my day of admission

• I have the following details?

I am expecting to stay in hospital for ____________________ nights.

I can eat and drink normally until _______________________________

I can have clear fluids until: ____________________________________

I must be nil by mouth from: ___________________________________

Medication instructions: _______________________________________

Preparing for your admission to hospital

Smoking and Alcohol

Please note this is a non smoking hospital

If you do smoke or drink please use this as an opportunity to stop or cut down. This helps speed up the healing process, your recovery and reduces the risk of complications. For smoking cessation advice contact Quitline, your GP or local pharmacist. Quitline: 0300 123 1044

If you require support with stopping alcohol please ask the nurses to contact our Hospital Alcohol Liaison Team (HALS).

You will receive your admission to hospital details by post. You will normally be admitted on the day of surgery, but occasionally the day before surgery. If this is necessary you will have been informed of this beforehand.

Your admission date and time is not guaranteed, as Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust operates an emergency service, patients requiring emergency care take preference. If the hospital is full or your surgeon has to deal with emergency cases, your admission may be deferred, however this is extremely rare.

All patients undergoing elective surgery will have their anaesthetic management considered either by a member of the surgical staff or a nurse practitioner or an Anaesthetist. This may take place in a pre-operative assessment clinic or on the day of admission. There are different types of anaesthetic, which the Anaesthetist will discuss with you. He/she will advise you on the best option for you.

You will be admitted to the Surgical Admission Unit or Day Surgery Unit / Surgical Ward, where you will be seen by the Doctors and the Anaesthetist. The nursing staff will prepare you for Theatre and escort you to Theatre when you are ready. Following Theatre you will be transferred to a Ward until you are ready to be discharged home.

It is important that you bring all your current medication in with you so that the correct medicines can be prescribed. This medication will be returned to you.

If you are having bowel or breast surgery you will be visited by a Nurse Specialist who will discuss the operation and after care with you. You will probably have met your Nurse in clinic but if not you will meet her on the ward.

You must stop drinking fluid TWO hours prior to your admission for surgery, but you may take a small sip of water to help swallow tablets if necessary. The nurses MAY offer you a drink of water once they know a more exact time for your operation.

You will not be allowed to eat anything for several hours before the operation. This will help ensure your stomach is empty and prevent vomiting during the operation. The starvation rules apply to procedures involving a general anaesthetic (where you are asleep and unware of what is going on) and also regional anaesthetics (where part of your body is made pain free). You will be given specific information about eating and drinking by your nurse.

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Taking regular medication prior to surgery

It is important that you do not miss out more tablets than necessary. For patients attending on the day of surgery this means taking your normal medication before you come in. Drugs may have to be altered or stopped before an operation (e.g. warfarin, insulin, tablets to reduce blood sugar, certain blood pressure tablets). The nursing staff will assess this during the Pre operative Assessment and give you written instructions. If in doubt phone pre operative assessment on 01253 955603.

Consent for your treatment

The Doctors, Nurses and Therapists will ask you to agree to any form of examination, treatment or care. It is important that you feel you have been given enough information before you agree to particular aspects of treatment. You are always free to say no or to ask for more information.

Your Operation

Most patients attending either Day Case or Inpatient Surgery will walk the short distance from the waiting area to the Theatre Suite. It is no longer normal practice to administer sedative premedication before surgery.

Once in the anaesthetic room routine monitoring devices will be attached to you. eg. ECG and a blood pressure cuff. You will have an intravenous cannula sited (put into your vein) which may have a fluid drip attached to it.

Patients having surgery under regional anaesthesia (that affects only part of your body) will then have the appropriate injection delivered into their back. For patients going to sleep, an oxygen mask may be placed over your mouth and nose and a drug will then be administered through the cannula. The drug works very quickly and you will fall asleep in a few seconds.

What happens after the operation

After the operation you will feel sleepy due to the anaesthetic. You may experience some discomfort when you wake. You will be given medication to help relieve the pain.

Almost all patients will spend some time in the recovery or Postoperative Care Unit after they wake up. During this time you will be closely monitored and any concerns regarding your condition will be addressed. You may be offered a drink of water during this period. Once the surgical and anaesthetic teams are happy with you, you will be discharged from the Theatre Suite to an appropriate Ward in the hospital. You and your attendants will have been notified of your final ward placement prior to surgery. It is not usual for visitors to be allowed access to the recovery area.

You may have a wound and a wound drain, which will drain away any blood or fluid that collects at the wound site. This will help to prevent any bruising or swelling.

The wound will be covered with a large plaster and will be left undisturbed for a couple of days. The wound clips will stay in place for 7-10 days. If you have left hospital, the District Nurse will visit you to remove them. On some occasions the operation can be done without an external wound. However you will have a wound inside the body and this also needs to heal.

You will be given oxygen via a nasal cannula (nose tube) or facemask for a few hours after the operation. This will help you recover from the anaesthetic. The Nurses will record your pulse and blood pressure regularly and make sure you are comfortable.

If you have pain please let the nurse know. You may be asked to wear compression stockings throughout your stay in hospital. As you will be doing less exercise than usual, the blood flow to your legs will become slower. The stockings will help to increase the blood flow and help prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). You may also receive daily injections to help prevent a DVT.

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Taking regular medication prior to surgery

It is important that you do not miss out more tablets than necessary. For patients attending on the day of surgery this means taking your normal medication before you come in. Drugs may have to be altered or stopped before an operation (e.g. warfarin, insulin, tablets to reduce blood sugar, certain blood pressure tablets). The nursing staff will assess this during the Pre operative Assessment and give you written instructions. If in doubt phone pre operative assessment on 01253 955603.

Consent for your treatment

The Doctors, Nurses and Therapists will ask you to agree to any form of examination, treatment or care. It is important that you feel you have been given enough information before you agree to particular aspects of treatment. You are always free to say no or to ask for more information.

Your Operation

Most patients attending either Day Case or Inpatient Surgery will walk the short distance from the waiting area to the Theatre Suite. It is no longer normal practice to administer sedative premedication before surgery.

Once in the anaesthetic room routine monitoring devices will be attached to you. eg. ECG and a blood pressure cuff. You will have an intravenous cannula sited (put into your vein) which may have a fluid drip attached to it.

Patients having surgery under regional anaesthesia (that affects only part of your body) will then have the appropriate injection delivered into their back. For patients going to sleep, an oxygen mask may be placed over your mouth and nose and a drug will then be administered through the cannula. The drug works very quickly and you will fall asleep in a few seconds.

What happens after the operation

After the operation you will feel sleepy due to the anaesthetic. You may experience some discomfort when you wake. You will be given medication to help relieve the pain.

Almost all patients will spend some time in the recovery or Postoperative Care Unit after they wake up. During this time you will be closely monitored and any concerns regarding your condition will be addressed. You may be offered a drink of water during this period. Once the surgical and anaesthetic teams are happy with you, you will be discharged from the Theatre Suite to an appropriate Ward in the hospital. You and your attendants will have been notified of your final ward placement prior to surgery. It is not usual for visitors to be allowed access to the recovery area.

You may have a wound and a wound drain, which will drain away any blood or fluid that collects at the wound site. This will help to prevent any bruising or swelling.

The wound will be covered with a large plaster and will be left undisturbed for a couple of days. The wound clips will stay in place for 7-10 days. If you have left hospital, the District Nurse will visit you to remove them. On some occasions the operation can be done without an external wound. However you will have a wound inside the body and this also needs to heal.

You will be given oxygen via a nasal cannula (nose tube) or facemask for a few hours after the operation. This will help you recover from the anaesthetic. The Nurses will record your pulse and blood pressure regularly and make sure you are comfortable.

If you have pain please let the nurse know. You may be asked to wear compression stockings throughout your stay in hospital. As you will be doing less exercise than usual, the blood flow to your legs will become slower. The stockings will help to increase the blood flow and help prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). You may also receive daily injections to help prevent a DVT.

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You may stay in bed overnight after some operations but most patients will be encouraged to get out of bed on the day of surgery as this aids your recovery. It is important to remain as mobile as possible during your recovery. The Nurses and Physiotherapists will advise you.

If you smoke you may have some problems with your chest after surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of postoperative complications which includes chest infections and increased coughing.

The amount of time you need to take off will depend on the nature of your work and the type of surgery you have had. If you need more time off please visit your GP who will advise you further.

You will not routinely need to visit your GP when you are discharged home. However if you experience:

• Pain that does not go away with the medication.

• High temperature, nausea, vomiting.

• Increased swelling, redness, heat around wound site.

• Generally feeling unwell.

• Symptoms which cause you concern.

Make an appointment to see your GP who will provide you with advice / treat you.

Pain relief after your operation

An operation will inevitably result in some pain/discomfort. What you experience may not be the same as your family or friends. We will treat your pain by giving suitably selected from the list below.

During your hospital stay we aim to provide good pain relief that will allow you to move, take deep breaths and cough. This is essential to help prevent you from suffering post-operative complications such as a chest infection or deep vein thrombosis.

Acceptable pain relief is a pain level that is not too distressing and one that allows you to rest, sleep, move, eat and continue with your daily activities of living. You will be asked regularly about your pain. The Doctors and Nurses taking care of you will ask you to give

your pain score from 0 to 3. (0 being no pain and 3 being severe pain) This will guide us in selecting the suitable pain relief medicine for you. If you are not getting adequate pain relief, you need to make it clear to us that you are continuing to experience pain. It may be that the type of pain relief you have been given needs changing or increasing in amount.

There are several ways to control your pain after an operation. The Anaesthetist will advise what type of pain relief is best for you depending on the type of operation you have had and your past medical history. The different types of pain relief include:

• Tablets or syrup / liquidYou will need to be able to drink and not feel sick before taking these pain relief medicines. They may take 30-45 minutes to work and it is important that you take the medication before the pain becomes too bad.

• InjectionsThese can be used if you are not eating and drinking properly. They are given either into your drip or through a small needle just under the skin in your arm or thigh. These usually take 20 minutes to work.

• Topical patchesMorphine based patches may be used to provide pain relief in the short term especially if you are unable to eat or drink normally.

• Patient controlled analgesiaThis is a locked electronic pump linked to a drip that you use yourself to administer a small amount of strong pain relief medicine (usually morphine) into the drip every few minutes, this is done via a handheld remote button. The pump has safety mechanisms to prevent over use but will enable you to control the amount that you need. If you require this type of pain relief further information will be given to you at the time.

• Local anaesthesia and regional blocksA one off dose of local anaesthetic medicine as an injection may be given in the anaesthetic room before the operation starts, it may be done whilst you are awake or asleep. This will be discussed with

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You may stay in bed overnight after some operations but most patients will be encouraged to get out of bed on the day of surgery as this aids your recovery. It is important to remain as mobile as possible during your recovery. The Nurses and Physiotherapists will advise you.

If you smoke you may have some problems with your chest after surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of postoperative complications which includes chest infections and increased coughing.

The amount of time you need to take off will depend on the nature of your work and the type of surgery you have had. If you need more time off please visit your GP who will advise you further.

You will not routinely need to visit your GP when you are discharged home. However if you experience:

• Pain that does not go away with the medication.

• High temperature, nausea, vomiting.

• Increased swelling, redness, heat around wound site.

• Generally feeling unwell.

• Symptoms which cause you concern.

Make an appointment to see your GP who will provide you with advice / treat you.

Pain relief after your operation

An operation will inevitably result in some pain/discomfort. What you experience may not be the same as your family or friends. We will treat your pain by giving suitably selected from the list below.

During your hospital stay we aim to provide good pain relief that will allow you to move, take deep breaths and cough. This is essential to help prevent you from suffering post-operative complications such as a chest infection or deep vein thrombosis.

Acceptable pain relief is a pain level that is not too distressing and one that allows you to rest, sleep, move, eat and continue with your daily activities of living. You will be asked regularly about your pain. The Doctors and Nurses taking care of you will ask you to give

your pain score from 0 to 3. (0 being no pain and 3 being severe pain) This will guide us in selecting the suitable pain relief medicine for you. If you are not getting adequate pain relief, you need to make it clear to us that you are continuing to experience pain. It may be that the type of pain relief you have been given needs changing or increasing in amount.

There are several ways to control your pain after an operation. The Anaesthetist will advise what type of pain relief is best for you depending on the type of operation you have had and your past medical history. The different types of pain relief include:

• Tablets or syrup / liquidYou will need to be able to drink and not feel sick before taking these pain relief medicines. They may take 30-45 minutes to work and it is important that you take the medication before the pain becomes too bad.

• InjectionsThese can be used if you are not eating and drinking properly. They are given either into your drip or through a small needle just under the skin in your arm or thigh. These usually take 20 minutes to work.

• Topical patchesMorphine based patches may be used to provide pain relief in the short term especially if you are unable to eat or drink normally.

• Patient controlled analgesiaThis is a locked electronic pump linked to a drip that you use yourself to administer a small amount of strong pain relief medicine (usually morphine) into the drip every few minutes, this is done via a handheld remote button. The pump has safety mechanisms to prevent over use but will enable you to control the amount that you need. If you require this type of pain relief further information will be given to you at the time.

• Local anaesthesia and regional blocksA one off dose of local anaesthetic medicine as an injection may be given in the anaesthetic room before the operation starts, it may be done whilst you are awake or asleep. This will be discussed with

113241_BLA_PL494.indd 11 18/07/2019 16:52

you by the Anaesthetist prior to the operation. It will numb the area which is being operated on and will stay numb for up to 24 hours after your operation. Continuous local anaesthetic infusions via a specialised pump may be used to provide even longer lasting pain relief if you have had major surgery.

• Epidural infusionA fine tube is placed in your back so that pain relief can be administered. This will numb the area and can be continued for a few days after the operation. If this type of pain relief is required, the Anaesthetist will discuss this with you in more detail. After the epidural is removed you will be given tablets or syrup to control any pain.

• Spinal anaesthesiaAn injection of local anaesthetic medicine is placed into your lower back to provide anaesthesia during your operation as well as pain relief after the operation is complete. This is routinely performed as part of our enhanced recovery programme for major surgery.

• Side effectsSometimes pain relief medicines may have side effects including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, feeling drowsy, itching and hallucinations.

Most of these can be easily treated if you tell us that you are experiencing them.

The treatment may include changing to alternative pain relief, reducing the dose or giving other medication to counteract the side effects.

• Acute Pain ServiceWe have a dedicated Acute Pain Service consisting of Acute Pain Specialist Nurses and a Consultant Anaesthetist to provide advice and review patients before, during and after their surgery.

Preventing infection

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust takes the prevention of infection very seriously.

There are many things you can do to help prevent infection. These include:

• Having a bath or a shower the day before, or on the day of surgery.

• Do not shave around the area where surgery will occur.

• Bring in your own personal toiletries. Do not borrow other patients toiletries.

• Always wash your hands after using the toilet / commode / bedpan. If you are unable to reach a sink, please ask one of the nursing staff to provide you with hand wipes.

• Wash or clean your hands before and after eating.

• Hospital staff must wash or sanitize their hands with gel before they examine you or perform a procedure. If they fail to do this they could be contaminating you with bacteria. Please challenge any member of staff if you do not see them clean their hands or feel free to ask them the question ‘Have you washed / cleaned your hands?‘.

• Your bed and ward area should be cleaned regularly. If you are not happy with the standard of cleanliness or you see that something has been missed, please report this to the Nurse in Charge or ask to speak to the Matron.

• Try to keep the top of your locker and bed table free from clutter so that the area can be cleaned properly.

• Please encourage your visitors to use the hand gel available to them at the entrance to the ward. They should use it on entering and leaving the ward.

• Please ask your relatives not to sit on your bed.

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you by the Anaesthetist prior to the operation. It will numb the area which is being operated on and will stay numb for up to 24 hours after your operation. Continuous local anaesthetic infusions via a specialised pump may be used to provide even longer lasting pain relief if you have had major surgery.

• Epidural infusionA fine tube is placed in your back so that pain relief can be administered. This will numb the area and can be continued for a few days after the operation. If this type of pain relief is required, the Anaesthetist will discuss this with you in more detail. After the epidural is removed you will be given tablets or syrup to control any pain.

• Spinal anaesthesiaAn injection of local anaesthetic medicine is placed into your lower back to provide anaesthesia during your operation as well as pain relief after the operation is complete. This is routinely performed as part of our enhanced recovery programme for major surgery.

• Side effectsSometimes pain relief medicines may have side effects including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, feeling drowsy, itching and hallucinations.

Most of these can be easily treated if you tell us that you are experiencing them.

The treatment may include changing to alternative pain relief, reducing the dose or giving other medication to counteract the side effects.

• Acute Pain ServiceWe have a dedicated Acute Pain Service consisting of Acute Pain Specialist Nurses and a Consultant Anaesthetist to provide advice and review patients before, during and after their surgery.

Preventing infection

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust takes the prevention of infection very seriously.

There are many things you can do to help prevent infection. These include:

• Having a bath or a shower the day before, or on the day of surgery.

• Do not shave around the area where surgery will occur.

• Bring in your own personal toiletries. Do not borrow other patients toiletries.

• Always wash your hands after using the toilet / commode / bedpan. If you are unable to reach a sink, please ask one of the nursing staff to provide you with hand wipes.

• Wash or clean your hands before and after eating.

• Hospital staff must wash or sanitize their hands with gel before they examine you or perform a procedure. If they fail to do this they could be contaminating you with bacteria. Please challenge any member of staff if you do not see them clean their hands or feel free to ask them the question ‘Have you washed / cleaned your hands?‘.

• Your bed and ward area should be cleaned regularly. If you are not happy with the standard of cleanliness or you see that something has been missed, please report this to the Nurse in Charge or ask to speak to the Matron.

• Try to keep the top of your locker and bed table free from clutter so that the area can be cleaned properly.

• Please encourage your visitors to use the hand gel available to them at the entrance to the ward. They should use it on entering and leaving the ward.

• Please ask your relatives not to sit on your bed.

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Monitoring surgical wounds for infection

Many micro-organisms (germs) live in and on our bodies and also in the environment. Most germs are harmless and some are even useful.

A surgical wound infection occurs when germs enter the incision (cut) that the surgeon makes through your skin in order to carry out the operation. A surgical wound infection can develop at any time from 2 to 3 days after surgery until the wound has healed. Very occasionally, an infection can occur several months after an operation.

Surgical wound infections are uncommon. During your stay in hospital, the Nurse who changes your wound dressings will check for any signs of infection. It is important that you do not remove the wound dressing, or touch your wound or wound drain. You could accidentally transfer germs from your fingers to your wound. Hands must be washed thoroughly and dried before any contact with the wound or dressing. If you are concerned about your wound, please speak to the Nurse who is looking after you.

Infection can develop after you leave hospital. You may have an infection if you develop the following symptoms:

• The skin around your wound gets red or sore, or it feels hot and swollen

• Your wound has a green or yellow coloured discharge.

• You feel generally unwell or feverish, or you have a temperature.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your GP. If your GP or the hospital think you have a wound infection, a swab will be taken from your wound and sent to the laboratory for testing. The results will confirm any infection and identify the best type of treatment for you.

Slips, trips and falls

There is a leaflet called “How to stay safe in hospital” that will be placed by your bedside – please read it and follow its advice to help reduce your risk of falls.

Privacy and dignity

Throughout your stay your privacy, dignity, religious and cultural beliefs will be respected. You will be cared for in a single sex bay within a ward unless you require high dependency care. Some single rooms are available, however priority is given to patients whose condition requires this type of room.

Medical Doctors

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals is involved in training Medical Students. Students learn a great deal from talking to and examining patients and your co-operation is greatly appreciated. However, your right to refuse the presence of students will be respected and such a refusal will not affect the standard of care or attention you receive.

Visiting

Each ward has their own visiting hours so please check with the ward when you arrive. Please adhere to TWO visitors per bed at one time and ask that your visitors respect all patient’s needs for rest, treatment and privacy.

Visitors are asked to assist us in protecting our patients from infections by:

• Staying at home if they have a cold, infection or stomach upset and only visiting when they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.

• If your visitor feels your visit is essential, please contact the ward to speak to the Nurse in Charge before they visit.

• Keep children, especially babies at home.

• Washing their hands before and after they visit.

• Using chairs at patient’s bedsides to sit on and not on the patient’s beds.

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Monitoring surgical wounds for infection

Many micro-organisms (germs) live in and on our bodies and also in the environment. Most germs are harmless and some are even useful.

A surgical wound infection occurs when germs enter the incision (cut) that the surgeon makes through your skin in order to carry out the operation. A surgical wound infection can develop at any time from 2 to 3 days after surgery until the wound has healed. Very occasionally, an infection can occur several months after an operation.

Surgical wound infections are uncommon. During your stay in hospital, the Nurse who changes your wound dressings will check for any signs of infection. It is important that you do not remove the wound dressing, or touch your wound or wound drain. You could accidentally transfer germs from your fingers to your wound. Hands must be washed thoroughly and dried before any contact with the wound or dressing. If you are concerned about your wound, please speak to the Nurse who is looking after you.

Infection can develop after you leave hospital. You may have an infection if you develop the following symptoms:

• The skin around your wound gets red or sore, or it feels hot and swollen

• Your wound has a green or yellow coloured discharge.

• You feel generally unwell or feverish, or you have a temperature.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your GP. If your GP or the hospital think you have a wound infection, a swab will be taken from your wound and sent to the laboratory for testing. The results will confirm any infection and identify the best type of treatment for you.

Slips, trips and falls

There is a leaflet called “How to stay safe in hospital” that will be placed by your bedside – please read it and follow its advice to help reduce your risk of falls.

Privacy and dignity

Throughout your stay your privacy, dignity, religious and cultural beliefs will be respected. You will be cared for in a single sex bay within a ward unless you require high dependency care. Some single rooms are available, however priority is given to patients whose condition requires this type of room.

Medical Doctors

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals is involved in training Medical Students. Students learn a great deal from talking to and examining patients and your co-operation is greatly appreciated. However, your right to refuse the presence of students will be respected and such a refusal will not affect the standard of care or attention you receive.

Visiting

Each ward has their own visiting hours so please check with the ward when you arrive. Please adhere to TWO visitors per bed at one time and ask that your visitors respect all patient’s needs for rest, treatment and privacy.

Visitors are asked to assist us in protecting our patients from infections by:

• Staying at home if they have a cold, infection or stomach upset and only visiting when they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours.

• If your visitor feels your visit is essential, please contact the ward to speak to the Nurse in Charge before they visit.

• Keep children, especially babies at home.

• Washing their hands before and after they visit.

• Using chairs at patient’s bedsides to sit on and not on the patient’s beds.

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Telephones

Mobile phones can be used in most areas of the hospital but reception may be limited. Please be discreet when using your phone and be considerate to other patients. In some areas, mobile phones should not be used as they interfere with vital monitoring equipment. Please discuss using your mobile phone with a member of staff.

Patientline

Patientline is your personal TV, telephone and free 24 hour radio service at the bedside. Instructions are on the TV screen. You will need to pay for viewing the TV and for any calls that you make. There are machines available by the wards to purchase a viewing card, please see them for further information.

Sharing information with your friends and family

Whilst you are in hospital, your condition and treatment will be fully discussed with you. Your right to confidentiality will be respected and upheld and you will have the right to choose whom information about your condition is given to. Unless you give us permission, we will be unable to pass on any information to your friends and relatives, particularly by telephone. Please tell us who we can speak to about your care.

When it is not possible to gain your permission, your treatment and condition will be only discussed with your next of kin or the person you have identified as the person to contact.

When if/the Ward staff feel that it is necessary to refer you to Social Services, this will be discussed with you and your permission will be sought. We only share essential information with other agencies.

Health and safety

All staff employed by the Trust must carry a photo identification badge. If you are unsure who anyone is please ask to see their badge.

We aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment. We do not tolerate anti-social behaviour, violence or discrimination of any kind. If necessary we will take appropriate action.

Meals, restaurants and snacks

Drinks will be offered during the day. A meal is served 3 times a day, based on a menu which you have chosen. They are usually served around 8am, 12.30pm and 5pm. If you feel that the menu does not cater for you, please speak to the Nurse in Charge.

A cafeteria which is open to the public sells snacks and drinks. Shops are available on site both at the New Main Entrance and entrance next to the Out Patients Department. Please ask permission to leave the Ward, and tell a member of staff where you are going.

Protected meal times for patients is operational to ensure that patients receive adequate nutrition and privacy during meal times. Visiting during mealtimes will be discouraged unless specific requirements have been identified.

Special needs and access to services / Disabilities

Our facilities for patients include drop off points and disabled car parking spaces with wheelchair accessible entrances. If you have any special requirements, including a learning disability or communication needs, please contact the Nurse/Midwife in Charge of the Ward in advance of your admission. Each ward has a designated link Nurse to support any patient with a learning disability.

Interpreting service

A language interpreting service is available in the hospital. There are also a number of staff who are able to interpret a variety of languages. If English is not your first language or you have difficulty communicating or understanding, please ask the staff to access the correct service for you.

Chaplaincy service

The Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care Department offer spiritual and pastoral care to patients and carers. They offer a confidential listening ear and, where appropriate, specific religious care.

If you would like to see a member of the Chaplaincy Team please ask one of the Nurses on the Ward or contact them by telephoning

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Telephones

Mobile phones can be used in most areas of the hospital but reception may be limited. Please be discreet when using your phone and be considerate to other patients. In some areas, mobile phones should not be used as they interfere with vital monitoring equipment. Please discuss using your mobile phone with a member of staff.

Patientline

Patientline is your personal TV, telephone and free 24 hour radio service at the bedside. Instructions are on the TV screen. You will need to pay for viewing the TV and for any calls that you make. There are machines available by the wards to purchase a viewing card, please see them for further information.

Sharing information with your friends and family

Whilst you are in hospital, your condition and treatment will be fully discussed with you. Your right to confidentiality will be respected and upheld and you will have the right to choose whom information about your condition is given to. Unless you give us permission, we will be unable to pass on any information to your friends and relatives, particularly by telephone. Please tell us who we can speak to about your care.

When it is not possible to gain your permission, your treatment and condition will be only discussed with your next of kin or the person you have identified as the person to contact.

When if/the Ward staff feel that it is necessary to refer you to Social Services, this will be discussed with you and your permission will be sought. We only share essential information with other agencies.

Health and safety

All staff employed by the Trust must carry a photo identification badge. If you are unsure who anyone is please ask to see their badge.

We aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment. We do not tolerate anti-social behaviour, violence or discrimination of any kind. If necessary we will take appropriate action.

Meals, restaurants and snacks

Drinks will be offered during the day. A meal is served 3 times a day, based on a menu which you have chosen. They are usually served around 8am, 12.30pm and 5pm. If you feel that the menu does not cater for you, please speak to the Nurse in Charge.

A cafeteria which is open to the public sells snacks and drinks. Shops are available on site both at the New Main Entrance and entrance next to the Out Patients Department. Please ask permission to leave the Ward, and tell a member of staff where you are going.

Protected meal times for patients is operational to ensure that patients receive adequate nutrition and privacy during meal times. Visiting during mealtimes will be discouraged unless specific requirements have been identified.

Special needs and access to services / Disabilities

Our facilities for patients include drop off points and disabled car parking spaces with wheelchair accessible entrances. If you have any special requirements, including a learning disability or communication needs, please contact the Nurse/Midwife in Charge of the Ward in advance of your admission. Each ward has a designated link Nurse to support any patient with a learning disability.

Interpreting service

A language interpreting service is available in the hospital. There are also a number of staff who are able to interpret a variety of languages. If English is not your first language or you have difficulty communicating or understanding, please ask the staff to access the correct service for you.

Chaplaincy service

The Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care Department offer spiritual and pastoral care to patients and carers. They offer a confidential listening ear and, where appropriate, specific religious care.

If you would like to see a member of the Chaplaincy Team please ask one of the Nurses on the Ward or contact them by telephoning

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the Chaplaincy office on 01253 953876. There is a Chaplain on call for emergencies 24 hours a day.

There is a chapel and prayer room situated in the hospital and you are welcome to visit for a time of quiet prayer or thought. Details of services held in the Chapel are available from the Team.

Comments, concerns and complaints

We welcome all comments on the service our Trust provides. Positive feedback provides a welcome boost to our staff.

If you have any concerns while you are in hospital please tell a member of staff about it straight away, as often they can be sorted out immediately. All our staff will receive any comments professionally and sympathetically and your care will not be affected in any way. If you feel that your concern has not been resolved please ask to speak to the Matron on duty.

The Patient Relations Department is available for raising concerns or to obtain advice and the service is confidential. They are situated at Victoria Hospital and Clifton Hospital. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. If you wish to meet with an officer please call to make an appointment or ask the nurse to help you arrange this. Victoria Hospital – 01253 955588 Clifton Hospital – 01253 956202

They can provide help with the following:

• Information about all NHS services across the Fylde Coast.

• Help you to sort out any concerns as quickly as possible.

• Listen to what you have to say about the Health Service.

• Make sure the NHS finds out from you what works and what needs changing.

• Advice if you wish to make a complaint.

If no one is available to take your call please leave a message on the answer machine and one of the Patient Relations officers will get back to you as soon as possible.

Some incidents can be more serious and require a quick and full investigation. You can tell us about these either verbally or in writing. A Patient Relations officer will make a record of your complaint and report back to you quickly. If you are not satisfied with the outcome you can put your complaint in writing to the Chief Executive. This will be fully acknowledged in writing and will be followed by a full investigation. When the investigation is concluded you will be sent a letter of explanation.

To contact the Complaints Department, telephone 01253 955635. If you wish to complain in writing your complaint should be addressed to The Chief Executive, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool, FY3 8NR. Please ensure your name, address and telephone number are included in any letter of complaint.

On receipt of your letter, your complaint will be logged and given a registration number. You should use this number in any future correspondence relating to your complaint.

Discharge arrangements

Please plan your discharge arrangement prior to coming into hospital. Most patients return home, however some people will require extra support which may include:

• Rehabilitation in another hospital.

• Short or long term placement in a residential or nursing home

• Carer support at home or in day care.

• Moving to a non acute hospital bed whilst awaiting for resources.

The Discharge Coordinator may visit you to assess your needs. They can help you to prepare for your discharge.

Unless you require an ambulance to take you home, you will need to arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital. If you have any concerns regarding this arrangement please speak to the staff.

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the Chaplaincy office on 01253 953876. There is a Chaplain on call for emergencies 24 hours a day.

There is a chapel and prayer room situated in the hospital and you are welcome to visit for a time of quiet prayer or thought. Details of services held in the Chapel are available from the Team.

Comments, concerns and complaints

We welcome all comments on the service our Trust provides. Positive feedback provides a welcome boost to our staff.

If you have any concerns while you are in hospital please tell a member of staff about it straight away, as often they can be sorted out immediately. All our staff will receive any comments professionally and sympathetically and your care will not be affected in any way. If you feel that your concern has not been resolved please ask to speak to the Matron on duty.

The Patient Relations Department is available for raising concerns or to obtain advice and the service is confidential. They are situated at Victoria Hospital and Clifton Hospital. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. If you wish to meet with an officer please call to make an appointment or ask the nurse to help you arrange this. Victoria Hospital – 01253 955588 Clifton Hospital – 01253 956202

They can provide help with the following:

• Information about all NHS services across the Fylde Coast.

• Help you to sort out any concerns as quickly as possible.

• Listen to what you have to say about the Health Service.

• Make sure the NHS finds out from you what works and what needs changing.

• Advice if you wish to make a complaint.

If no one is available to take your call please leave a message on the answer machine and one of the Patient Relations officers will get back to you as soon as possible.

Some incidents can be more serious and require a quick and full investigation. You can tell us about these either verbally or in writing. A Patient Relations officer will make a record of your complaint and report back to you quickly. If you are not satisfied with the outcome you can put your complaint in writing to the Chief Executive. This will be fully acknowledged in writing and will be followed by a full investigation. When the investigation is concluded you will be sent a letter of explanation.

To contact the Complaints Department, telephone 01253 955635. If you wish to complain in writing your complaint should be addressed to The Chief Executive, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool, FY3 8NR. Please ensure your name, address and telephone number are included in any letter of complaint.

On receipt of your letter, your complaint will be logged and given a registration number. You should use this number in any future correspondence relating to your complaint.

Discharge arrangements

Please plan your discharge arrangement prior to coming into hospital. Most patients return home, however some people will require extra support which may include:

• Rehabilitation in another hospital.

• Short or long term placement in a residential or nursing home

• Carer support at home or in day care.

• Moving to a non acute hospital bed whilst awaiting for resources.

The Discharge Coordinator may visit you to assess your needs. They can help you to prepare for your discharge.

Unless you require an ambulance to take you home, you will need to arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital. If you have any concerns regarding this arrangement please speak to the staff.

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Options availableIf you’d like a large print, audio, Braille or a translated version of this leaflet then please call: 01253 955520

Hospital Switchboard: 01253 300000

Patient Relations DepartmentThe Patient Relations Department offer impartial advice and deal with any concerns or complaints the Trust receives. You can contact them via tel: 01253 955588 or by email: [email protected]

You can also write to us at: Patient Relations Department, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool FY3 8NR

Further information is available on our website: www.bfwh.nhs.uk

ReferencesDetails of the references used in writing this leaflet are available on request from: Procedural Document and Leaflet Coordinator 01253 953397 or [email protected]

People Centred PositiveCompassion Excellence

Our Four Values:

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Useful contact detailsWe hope this information booklet has been useful to you. If you wish to make any further enquiries about your admission to hospital please contact the Surgical Admissions unit: 01253 953322

This service is only available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. If you require any advice outside these times, please contact the Senior Nurse for surgery on: 01253 300000

Ask for the department you need i.e. your consultants secretary etc.

Author: Karen Smith Reference No: BWFH21 - PL/494 v3Approved by: Clinical Improvement (CA) Review Date: 01/09/2020Date of Publication: 09/09/2017

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coming into hospital for an operation · dressing gown. • some casual loose clothing to wear...

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