Hand & Wrist Surgery Pre-Operative Advice

Introduction

This leaflet has been designed to provide you with information in preparation for your operation.

Local Anaesthesia

For operations on a small area of the body, such as the hand, it is possible to inject local anaesthetic at the site of the operation. Local anaesthetic numbs this part of the body. It does not lead to loss of consciousness (will not make you go to sleep); it will just stop you from feeling pain.

What do I need to do before my operation?

You must:

• Have a responsible adult to take you home and look after you for the first 48 hours. YOU MUST NOT use public transport.

• Continue to take all medication as prescribed unless otherwise instructed.

• Do NOT drink alcohol on the day of your operation.

• Ensure that you can remove all rings from the hand being operated on.

What do I need to do on the day of my operation?

You must:

• Eat and drink as normal. As previously mentioned, you will be awake for your operation but will not be able to see your operation or be able to feel any pain.

• Remove nail varnish and acrylic nails from all your fingers and toes.

• DO NOT bring large sums of money, jewellery or valuables in with you. We do not have the facility to secure valuable items.

• Bring all medication with you in their original containers (both prescribed and non-prescribed) and tell us of any change in your general health.

• Wear loose comfortable clothing, for example, either a short sleeved top or a top with loose cuffs. A long sleeved tight fitting top will make dressing and undressing difficult once a large bandage has been applied to your hand/wrist.

• Inform our staff before your operation if you need a sick-note.

Contact Numbers

Admin Hub

Telephone: 01429 522471

Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm

Outside of these hours if you need urgent medical advice contact your GP or 111.

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:

Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617

Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience

We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:

Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:

Email: [email protected]