Pre Admission Clinic

Why do you need to attend a Pre Admission Clinic appointment

• Your admission to the hospital will be streamlined.
• A Pre Admission Assessment may assist in reducing the amount of time you have to spend in the hospital
• An early assessment of your needs and state of health will assist staff to arrange any investigations or specialist referrals before your surgery, should you require them.
• It will give you an opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns.
• In conjunction with staff you will be able to plan for your discharge from hospital.

What will happen when you attend an appointment

• You will have a chance to meet some of the hospital staff and familiarize yourself with the hospital layout.
• The Pre Admission Clinic nurse will review your health assessment and ask you any relevant questions.
• You will have the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you have regarding your proposed surgery or your care after you go home.
• Whenever possible, you will be provided with written information about your planned surgery and the care you will receive.
• The Pre Admission staff will discuss with you your ability to look after yourself after you leave hospital. A preliminary booking for home services may be arranged for you as needed.
• You will have your medical history taken and be examined by a Hospital Medical Officer (Doctor) who will be working with your surgeon.
• All the information you provide at the Pre Admission appointment will be filed in your hospital record and will be ready for when you are admitted.

What do you need to bring to the appointment

• Any medication or list of current medication. It is sometimes necessary to cease some medication prior to surgery. The staff will notify you if you need to do this.
• Your Medicare card or private health insurance information.
• Any x-rays, letters or any other information that relates to your planned surgery.
• As it may be necessary for you to have various tests, we recommend that you wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.

How long will the appointment take

• Generally, the appointment will take between 1-2 hours.
• If you are booked to undergo joint replacement surgery (hip or knee replacement) your appointment will take between 3-4 hours).