What happens at the hospital
When you arrive at the hospital, the receptionist will take down your personal information.
You will be introduced to your nurse and allocated a bed.
After a variable period of waiting, you will be wheeled to the operating theatre.
The Anaesthetist is the specialist who keeps you asleep while the surgeon operates. He or she will introduce themselves and check your general health. At this stage you can ask the Anaesthetist any questions relating to the anaesthetic.
Sarah will come and see you, and draw a large arrow on the arm or leg requiring surgery. She will also ask if you have any last minute questions, and will check that you have your Xrays with you.
You will then be wheeled into theatre and placed on the operating table.
The Anaesthetist will place a small needle in the back of your hand to administer the medication which will keep you asleep while Sarah operates.
The next thing you will be aware of is waking up in the Recovery Room. A nurse will be standing by your bed, ready to assist you.
Once you are more alert, you will be transferred to the ward where you will be cared for by a nurse, who usually looks after another 3-5 patients.
Sarah will see you in the ward the following morning, and will tell you about your surgery. Not all patients remember this, however, so Sarah will see you again 7 days later to discuss your surgery, and to check your wound.