Start when you can
- Write down your questions, concerns and what matters most to you.
- Ask what recovery may involve and what help you might need at home.
- Tell your team about any support or communication needs, including an interpreter.
- Discuss anything that may make preparation difficult, such as transport, caring responsibilities or living alone.
Once you have a surgery date
- Confirm the hospital location, arrival time and contact number.
- Complete any appointments, forms or tests your team has requested.
- Ask for clear instructions about your medicines, vitamins and supplements. Only change them as directed by your care team.
- Confirm your instructions for eating and drinking before surgery.
- Arrange transport and ask whether someone needs to accompany you home or stay with you afterwards.
- Organise help with work, children, pets or other responsibilities where needed.
As surgery gets closer
- Check your hospital’s packing list and gather the requested documents and belongings.
- Keep your care team’s contact details somewhere easy to find.
- Let your team know if you become unwell or your circumstances change.
- Check any instructions you are unsure about rather than guessing.
Before leaving hospital
- Make sure you understand your written instructions for recovery and medicines.
- Ask about follow-up appointments and any limits on everyday activities.
- Know who to contact with concerns, including outside normal hours.
- Ask your team what changes need urgent medical attention.
One useful next step: Choose one thing you can arrange today. You do not need to complete everything at once.