After your Operation..
You will be kept as comfortable as possible throughout your procedure. Upon waking, you may feel drowsy, and you will be transferred to the recovery area where your pulse and blood pressure will be closely monitored until you are fully awake. You will receive oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth. Once it is determined that you have safely recovered from the effects of the anaesthetic, you will be moved to your assigned ward.
Anaesthetists are highly trained in pain management and will ensure you are kept comfortable throughout your surgery and recovery. Your anaesthetist will give advice on taking over the counter pain relief medications and/or prescribe take home pain relief medication where appropriate.
Following anaesthesia, your ability to think clearly, react quickly, and coordinate movements may be temporarily impaired. For your safety, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- If your procedure was a day surgery or treatment, rest at home for at least 24 hours.
- For 24 hours after your surgery, avoid the following activities:
- Driving any type of vehicle, including bicycles.
- Operating machinery or tools.
- Cooking with sharp utensils or handling hot liquids.
- Consuming alcohol.
- Smoking.
- Taking sleeping pills.
- Making important decisions or signing legal documents.
If you are being discharged on the same day as your procedure:
- You will be unable to drive yourself home, so please arrange for a responsible adult to pick you up.
- If you live alone, ensure that you either stay with someone or have someone stay with you on the night of your surgery.