Stay Over Patients

Preparing for Admission

• The following is a guide for what you will need to bring with you on the day of your operation:
• Nightwear
• Slippers with non-slip soles
• Toiletry requirements and other personal necessities
• All medicines and inhalers (in original containers / boxes) you are currently using or have recently taken

• Items that you usually use or have been given by the Occupational Therapist such as your “helping hand”, toe drier and sock applicator, Your Patient Activity sheet, if your Surgeon has provided you with one of these

Do not bring;

• Your vehicle as you will be unable to drive for 24 hours following your anaesthetic.
• Valuables such as jewellery and cash. Please note that Mercy Hospital is unable to take responsibility for the security of these items.

Admission

Generally you will be admitted to Mercy Hospital through the Day Surgery Unit (DSU). From there you will be taken to Theatre and following your surgery, you will be taken to McAuley Ward which is located on the first floor of Mercy Hospital.

Accommodation

If you are staying overnight, you will be given the option of staying in a single or 4-bed room Every effort will be made to accommodate your preference, but your first choice may not be available. If your surgery is related to an ACC claim please be aware that the cost of a single room is not covered.

You may still request a single room, but you will be charged the additional fee for this option.

Visiting Hours

Visiting hours – McAuley Ward: 2pm – 8pm.
Your visitors are most welcome but visiting hours are set to allow you adequate rest and recovery time. We do strongly discourage visiting outside of these hours as visitors can be disruptive to others, particularly in shared rooms.

Please discuss issues relating to visiting hours with the Nursing staff.

Planning for Discharge

To allow adequate time for cleaning and room preparation, we ask that you arrange to leave the hospital by 11.00am on the morning of your discharge.

A late discharge fee may be payable if discharge time is delayed.

It is important following major surgery that you have good support at home for at least the first week. If you do not have support available, it is important that you make arrangements for this prior to your surgery.

Mercy Hospital does not offer extended convalescent care, however there are rest homes in Dunedin and the greater area where short term care can be provided following surgery. It is important that any plans involving a care facility or community support are in place before your admission.

If you require the District Nursing Service following your discharge, this will be arranged by the nursing staff.

If you would like to discuss your care requirements following discharge please contact the Clinical Coordinator McAuley Ward (03) 464 0107.