Surgeries: Types
February 7, 2025
Taking Care of Yourself Afterwards
February 10, 2025Arrive one day before
Health Check:
Answer health questions, and have vital signs and tests checked.
Information Review:
Confirm details and wear an ID bracelet.
Meet the Team:
Chat with the anesthesia, surgeon, and breast nurse, and sign consent for your procedure.
Preparation:
Follow instructions on when to stop eating and drinking. (Usually at least 6-12 hours before your operation) Diabetic patients may get an IV line, and blood sugar will be monitored.
Informed Consent:
This is a form you are required to sign to give the team permission. Make sure that you understand what you are signing – and if not, please ask your team for a detailed explanation.
Getting Ready for Theatre
- You will put on theatre clothes provided by the nurse.
- You may get a calming tablet in the ward.
- Theatre staff will move you on a trolley bed to the theatre.
- The anaesthetist will ask you some questions.
- Vital Sign Monitoring: Blood pressure check, electrodes on the chest for the heartbeat, and a clip on your finger for oxygen levels.
- You will receive general anaesthetic that will put you to sleep for the duration of the operation.
- Recovery Room Monitoring: After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room until ready to transfer to a ward.
The Recovery Room
What will happen as you wake up?
- Wake up gradually, may feel sleepy and groggy.
- Nursing staff monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing.
- Given oxygen if needed.
- Report any nausea/pain and don’t be scared to ask for medication.
Drains and Transfer:
- You will have one or two drains on your chest.
- You will be moved to the ward when fully awake.