Discharge from hospital

Your healthcare team will discuss with you are fit enough to leave hospital (discharge). We aim to get patients home about 5 days after surgery, but this can be longer depending on their recovery and possible complications.

Before leaving hospital you will:

• be able to eat and drink normally
• wash, shower and dress yourself
• have had a poo (opened your bowels)
• feel confident and able to walk around

Before you leave the ward:

• your wound will be checked
• we will give you advice about looking after yourself at home
• you will be given a supply of medicine. This is usually for at least 14 days but can vary depending on your need.
• you will be given a letter about your medicines and a copy will be sent to your GP. You should continue to take these medicines, and only these medicines, as instructed.

If you take warfarin you will receive information and arrangements for follow-up blood tests with your GP or local clinic, which you will need to have regularly.

Your journey home

You will need to arrange your own transport and make sure someone escorts you. Hospital transport is only available in certain circumstances.

Ask your nurse for some painkillers so your journey is more comfortable. If you take water tablets, speak to your nurse about the best time to take them as this may help to prevent you needing to find a toilet during your journey.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes.

You must wear a seatbelt if travelling by car. You can make this more comfortable by using a small pillow or towel between your chest and seatbelt.

A long journey can be more comfortable if you stop for frequent breaks.

If travelling by train you should be accompanied by a friend or relative. Check with the nurse to confirm a suitable travel time before you book tickets. If you need assistance at the station, you should contact the train operator, ideally 24 hours in advance.