Your Procedure
When you arrive for your procedure you will be greeted by one of the reception staff. They will escort you into the centre and check your personal identification details, medical history, allergies, etc. They will confirm your expected procedure and ensure you are aware of your rights and responsibilities. If you require the toilet, the receptionists are happy to direct you.
1. Initial Preparation
You will be prepared for your procedure.
Your blood pressure and other vital observations will be recorded. The sedationist and the proceduralist (doctor) will both see you prior to being transferred to the procedure room. Please advise them of any concerns you may have. You will be provided with a lockable cupboard/ drawer for any personal items. Please do not wear excess jewellery or bring unnecessary items. Phones are allowed but the sound should be muted.
At times there may be a short delay as some procedures may take longer than expected or urgent procedures from the hospital may take priority. This is rare but if it occurs the nursing staff will keep you informed of any delays or changes.
2. Sedation
Our nurses and doctors will verify your name and other personal identifiers to ensure the correct procedure will be attended.This is a mandatory directive. If you have any concerns do not hesitate to confirm prior to your sedation.
The sedationist will place a small needle in your hand/ arm so he/she can administer the sedation medication during the procedure. This will be done in the few minutes before your procedure.
3. The Procedure
You will be transferred to the procedure room.
Once the nurses and doctors are ready to start the procedure, the sedation will commence. The doctor will wait until the sedation has taken effect before starting the procedure. This only takes a few minutes.
The sedationists will administer small amounts of medication regularly to ensure your comfort.
You will be monitored closely during and after the procedure. Oxygen will be administered either through a mask or similar device to ensure adequate oxygen is delivered throughout the period you are sedated.
You will only be sedated for as long as the procedure takes. Depending on the procedure you are having, it may take from 15 minutes to an hour.
Your Recovery
You should wake from your sedation at the end of the procedure or shortly after. You will be sleepy for up to 10-20 minutes after the procedure and will need to rest. You will be monitored in the recovery area after your procedure, until you are fully awake. This will generally take up to half an hour. After this time you will be offered some light refreshments and the nurses will contact the person you have allocated to collect you.
When will I find out the results of my Procedure?
Before your discharge you will be seen by the proceduralist to give you an explanation of the findings.
The nurses will give you a copy of the report and other relevant post-procedure information. This information will be discussed with you prior to your discharge. Your blood pressure and other vital signs will be checked again and the needle used for sedation will be removed. The nurse will escort you out of the unit and into the care of your relative/ friend who will be escorting you home.