PREPARING FOR ADMISSION

Like everything, good preparation, and careful planning before you go to hospital, will make things that little bit easier. Here are some points that may help you.

Special Needs

If you have any special needs, inform the hospital before you arrive. Hospitals are very access friendly, but if you require extra help, for whatever reason, a short call before you arrive, will make it easier for you're ward to arrange things before you arrive .

Medicines & Tablets

If you are taking any medicines or tablets, please bring them with you to hospital. Always inform the staff on admission of any such medication. The ward staff may want to keep this in a safe place. Any medication that you require when leaving hospital, will be returned to you when you go home.

Clothes

Nightwear, dressing gown, slippers, and in some cases, light daywear, with a change of underwear is all essential. Ideally, bring at least one change of night ware, although most hospitals can provide these in case of emergency.

Hygiene

You will need to bring with you, all those items of a personal nature that you will require. Soap, toothbrush or denture cleaner, Shampoo & hair brush, also remember to bring at least one towel. Gentlemen will also need shaving foam & a razor, or an electric razor. You should also bring with you, anything that may make you feel more comfortable, like tissues or wet wipes. You will find that most of these items are available at either the hospital shop, or from volunteers who provide a trolley shop service. However, if you prefer a certain brand, it would be advisable to purchase it before your visit.

Valuables

It is not a good idea to take valuables, or precious items to hospital with you. No hospital will accept responsibility for the loss or damage of any valuables during your stay in hospital. All wards have clocks, and so a watch should not be necessary. You may also be asked to remove rings before certain treatments, if you are aware of this, you should leave these with a friend or relative before treatment.

During your stay, you will only need a very limited amount of cash, lets say, for a daily paper, or some toiletries, or the odd phone call. Always keep your cash to a minimum. If necessary, you can always ask a friend or relative to bring you some more in on their next visit.

Remember

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN VALUABLES.

Amenity Beds

Some hospitals have amenity beds. These are usually a single room on the ward. If you feel that you would like to have the privacy of a single room, you should contact your ward to see if there are any available. There will usually be a charge for this facility; you will be advised of this at the time of your enquiry. However, these rooms are not available to be booked in advance, and you should contact your hospital on the morning of your admission.

Admission

You will find that the admission procedure is both simple and straightforward. When you arrive at your ward, either the Sister or a Staff Nurse will welcome you. She my well have a few simple questions to ask, and you will then be shown to your bed. Always remember, that if you are unsure about anything, or have any questions, do not hesitate to ask. You will find all members of staff to be both helpful and courteous.