Once the doctor has confirmed that you may go home, it can take some time before everything is ready. We may have to order medicines from the pharmacy for you and write a letter for your GP. While you are waiting we may ask you to take a seat so we can get your bed ready for the next patient. You will be anxious to get home but try not to get too impatient. Sometimes you may need to come back at a later date to an outpatient clinic. We will usually post a letter to your home with the appointment date.

It’s important that you are clear about any medication you have to take, about looking after any dressing you might have, about getting stitches removed – or anything else that you need to do to look after yourself when you go home. If you’re not sure, please ask. We will be only too pleased to explain things to you.

And when you get home, don’t overdo it. Give yourself a bit of time to get back into everyday life. And make sure you follow all the advice the hospital gives you.