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Answer: If there have been any recent changes in your health, please advise your anaesthetist, surgeon or Southern Cross Hospitals nursing staff at the earliest opportunity.  For example, if you develop a cold, infection or flu, have a skin infection, scratch or sore, vomiting or diarrhea, or suffer from an asthma attack prior to your admission, you should let your specialist or the hospital know as soon as possible - as it may be necessary to postpone your procedure. 

Answer: Yes, it is very important that you leave your MedicAlert bracelet, pendant or other MedicAlert item on at all times. It is also important that you indicate that you have a MedicAlert or any other allergy or sensitivity on your Health Questionnaire Form and verbally on admission to your medical specialists and nurses.

Answer: Yes – please inform us of any special requirement on the Health Questionnaire form in your admission pack and when you arrive at the hospital. As long as your surgery allows, your dietary requirements will be met. 

Answer: To ensure the safety of others and yourself, NZ Law prohibits driving following anaesthesia or after taking other medications known to impair a person’s ability to drive. Please arrange for a relative or friend to take you home, or use a taxi (we recommend that you do not use public transport).

Answer: In most cases you will need to make a follow-up appointment with your specialist if an appointment has not already been arranged for you by our staff. This is usually done by phoning your specialist within a day or so of leaving the hospital. If you have any problems before that appointment please contact your specialist or general practitioner immediately.

Answer: You should arrange for a responsible adult to stay with you for 24 hours after you get home. We recommend that during that time you should rest, avoid alcohol, cigarettes and non-prescribed medications or substances (other than those prescribed by your doctor) and follow the instructions of your doctor and/or hospital staff. In the first 24 hours following surgery you should not drive a vehicle or operate any machinery. You are also advised not to make any important decisions or sign any legal documents.