Patient identification

• Please confirm on admission that your personal information is correct such as Name, Address, Telephone, Next of Kin, GP etc
• If you have reported any allergies, please check that you are wearing a red wrist band
• During your time with us, you may be asked to re-confirm this information.

Preventing falls

• Keep everything you need within easy reach, including your call bell. Ensure you know how to call for help
• Wear good fitting footwear or the red non-slip socks you have been provided when walking about
• Use the walking aids issued postoperatively by the physiotherapist and if unsure please ask for help
• If you have been advised to ask for help before walking or need help going to the toilet, please use your call bell. We would always prefer to help you move around safely than to risk you having a fall.

Infection prevention

• Tell us if you have been feeling unwell or had a fever in the last 24 hours
• Wash your hands before and after visiting the toilet and before all meals
• Ask staff if they have washed their hands before treating you and speak up if they do not wash their hands
• Please use the antibacterial gel to clean your hands when you arrive and before you leave
• Please ask your visitors to sanitise their hands when they arrive and leave
• Antibacterial gel dispensers can be found in various locations throughout the hospital.

Preventing blood clots

• Take any blood thinning tablets or injections prescribed during your stay
• You may be asked to wear surgical stockings. Your nursing team will tell you how to put them on and take them off, and how long to wear them for
• Try to do simple leg and ankle exercises or take short walks if you are allowed
• Drink fluids as recommended.

Medication safety

• Tell us if you have any allergies
• Talk to your nursing team if you have any questions about the medications, you are being given during your stay
• Take any prescribed medication during your stay and then continue with recommended medication on discharge.

Pressure ulcers

• Change your position regularly when in bed or sitting
• Look out for any areas of redness on your skin, if you are sore in any area, please let us know immediately. We are very happy to help you change position.

Nutrition and hydration

• It is important that you receive fluids and nourishment so please tell us if you’re having any difficulties eating or drinking
• It is important to stay hydrated, so do drink plenty of water
• If you are having difficulties or unable to pass urine, please let your nursing team know
• If you having difficulties passing a bowel movement, please let your nursing team know.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a rare and serious condition.

Please let us know if you feel unwell and also have any of these symptoms:

• Slurred speech
• Extreme shivering or muscle pain
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Severe breathlessness “I feel like I might die”
• Skin mottled or discoloured

Discharge instructions

Before you leave, make sure that you:

• Have your GP discharge summary letter and understand its content
• Have your medicines and that they have been explained to you, including any possible side effects
• Know if any follow up appointments are needed
• Have been given information on who to contact if you have any questions or concerns at any time.

Safety concerns

Please let us know if you are worried or feel concerned about your care or treatment at any time during your stay.

We are here to help.