Before your admission

• Depending on your procedure, you may be referred to one of our physicians for a preoperative assessment to ensure you are medically fit for surgery and anaesthesia.

• If preoperative blood tests are required, please complete these as instructed prior to your admission.

• Carefully review all information provided by our rooms and ensure your hospital admission forms are completed in advance.

• Take care of your overall health. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet, get adequate sleep and engage in light exercise to maintain strength and flexibility.

• If you smoke, it is strongly recommended that you stop smoking, or at a minimum cease in the days leading up to your surgery.

• Please inform our rooms of any regular medications you are taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped prior to surgery. If you attend a preoperative physician appointment, they will advise you accordingly.

• Arrange for a family member or friend to collect you from hospital, as you will not be able to drive. The hospital will also require someone to stay with you on your first night at home.

• You may benefit from having assistance at home during the first one to two weeks after surgery such as a friend or relative. If required, inpatient rehabilitation may be arranged prior to discharge.

Further information provided by Epworth Hospital can be found here.

Postoperative rehabilitation

Inpatient rehabilitation may be available following your surgery, provided it is approved by your health fund or a relevant third-party such as WorkCover or TAC.

The need for rehabilitation depends on several factors, including:

• the type of surgery

• your general health

• your physical condition

• your home support and living arrangements.

Rehabilitation planning is coordinated by the hospital during your stay. A member of the rehabilitation team will meet with you after surgery to discuss your options and, if needed, arrange transfer to an appropriate facility.