Daycase

Our busy day case units carry out operations under local, regional or general anaesthetics. Some of the Surgeons are based at Yeovil Hospital but others visit us for their lists from Dorchester, Taunton, Exeter and Bath. Our programme involves many different specialities/surgeons and includes:

• Cardiology procedures
• Dermatology
• Ear Nose and Throat
• Endoscopy
• General surgery including some laparoscopic (keyhole)
• Oral Maxillo-facial and dental
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopaedics
• Plastics
• Urology.

We understand that for some patients coming into hospital for surgery can be a worrying time. As a department we are committed to the trust values and we aim to deliver high standards of quality care to all our patients. You should expect to be supported throughout your journey by experienced day surgery staff dedicated to delivering compassionate, patient focused care in a safe and caring environment.

We believe all patients have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. To support this, and every patient’s right to privacy and confidentiality,  the Endoscopy and Day Surgery Unit is following Department of Health guidance and has introduced a ‘drop and go’ system for patients’ relatives, carers or friends.

Information about this should be sent to you with the letter asking you to come in for your operation. This new system means that only the patient enters past the Reception area. All relatives/friends are welcome to wait in the main reception area or one of the hospital’s cafés.

In some circumstances exemptions may be made in the patient’s best interest or if they require special support. If you or your carer feel that this needs to be taken into consideration please ask to speak to the member of staff admitting you to the unit. Children under 18 who are having treatment can be accompanied by parents or guardians.

The time you are asked to come in is not an appointment. Although most of the surgery we carry out will mean you can go home the same day, please remember that you need time for your admissions process, operation and recovery. Depending on your type and length of surgery you may need to be prepared to spend all day with us. We recommend that you bring in something to keep you occupied during your visit. We also have free WiFi available – Ward staff who receive a request, can set up an account for patients by following the guide available on the Intranet.

A hearing loop system is available and, should you rely on guide dogs and hearing dogs, you are permitted to bring them onto the Day Surgery Unit wards. However, we ask that once you go into theatre dogs are taken out of the department until you return to the ward. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of other patients, as well as the animals themselves.

We have access to the NHS telephone interpreting service to support any patient who may have limited English language skills.

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) provides patients, relatives, carers and service users with confidential and impartial help if they have a problem or need more information while using the Daycase UK services.

The overall aim is to improve the patient experience by offering advice and support, listening and responding to concerns, suggestions or queries and helping to sort out problems quickly on your behalf.

They can also advise on the appropriate method for sharing compliments or formal complaints.

Please visit our PALs page for more information.