If you’re a day case or day patient, it means you won’t need to stay overnight but you may be given a bed. You’ll be coming in for a test or scan, or a minor procedure.
What to bring
You won’t need to pack an overnight bag, but it’s a good idea to bring:
- Prescriptions of any medications you’re taking
- Glasses or prescription for ophthalmology appointments
- A book, e-reader, mobile or other entertainment to keep you occupied between tests, during treatment (e.g. chemotherapy) or while you recover (e.g. after minor surgery)
After your appointment, you may need to rest for a while before going home. If so, you will be able to relax in a recovery room and your consultant or nurse will let you know when you can go home.
Going home
Before you leave, depending on your circumstances we may give you advice about:
- Next steps
- Managing any pain
- Looking after your wounds if you’ve had surgery
- Your recovery and how long it’s expected to take
- Things you can do to help your recovery
- When you can get back to your usual activities, such as driving or work
They may also arrange a follow-up appointment with you at a later date, to check on your progress and if any further treatment, tests or scans are needed.