You may be invited to come in to hospital the day before your planned operation, although some NHS Trusts now want patients to come in on the day of the operation, so be prepared for an early start! Once settled you will be welcomed firstly by the Ward Team who will make you familiar with your surroundings and go through the necessary paperwork. You will then meet members of the wider team who will be caring for you. This team may comprise of:

• Doctors and nurses
• Ward staff
• Anaesthetist
• Registrar
• Pain Relief Specialist
• Housekeepers

Your consultant may see you at this time to mark you up and to go through the consent form. Sometimes you may be asked to have further photographs taken.

During this time there may well be period of inactivity. Make use of the TV system or go for a walk.