Discharge

You will need to think about your discharge even before you come in to hospital, as there may be arrangements that you need to make. Your doctor can provide an estimate of how long you will be hospitalised and will discuss discharge plans with the nursing staff.

You will be advised of any items you may need to hire or purchase to use at home when you are discharged and you will need to arrange to have these available. Arrange for someone to take you home from hospital. If you are having major surgery it is helpful to have someone who is able to help you with cooking, laundry and housework after you are discharged.

When you are ready to leave, a staff member will assist you to front reception if required, to finalise your discharge.

We inform our patients on the morning of their discharge and aim to discharge patients by 11am, however, there are occasions when following a review by, or discussion with the Consultant, patients may be discharged any time throughout the day once the Consultant and nursing staff are assured it is safe to do so.

Before you leave the ward area ensure you have:

• Your medications and/or prescriptions
• All personal items
• A copy of your discharge information form