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Planning for Your Discharge

Coming to hospital can be overwhelming for many patients. At Burnside Hospital we make your journey as stress‑free as possible by planning and preparing for your discharge from the moment you are admitted. Let our caring hospital staff reduce your anxiety and support you through to a successful recovery.

At Burnside Hospital our staff are proactive and positive about your journey to recovery and subsequent discharge. We encourage you to consider the following questions and discuss them with your admitting doctor or medical team:

How long will I be in the hospital?
What should I expect during my recovery period?
How long will my recovery take?
Will there be any restrictions on my activities after leaving hospital?
Will I need ongoing physiotherapy or support?
Will I need to adjust my medications?
Your doctor and our hospital staff will work closely with you throughout your stay to ensure you're informed and confident as you progress to recovery.

The length of your hospital stay will depend on various factors which we’ll keep you updated about at all times. 

 

Early discharge planning is vital to making sure you have the right support in place when you return home.

Whether it's arranging for help at home, understanding your ongoing care needs, or ensuring you have the medications you need, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us. We're here to help you plan your recovery, every step of the way.

Discharge After a Short Stay (Day) Procedure

Burnside Hospital provides high-quality care that ensures your time with us is as comfortable, pleasant, and safe as possible.

The following recommendations from the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons support your safe recovery after a day procedure:

  • No Driving: for your safety, you will not be able to drive for 24 hours following your procedure, or as advised by your surgeon or anaesthetist.
  • Arrange Transportation: please make arrangements for a responsible adult to drive you home after your procedure.
  • Post-Procedure Care: if you live alone, you will need to arrange for a responsible adult (over the age of 18) to care for you overnight.
  • Stay Close to Medical Care: after discharge, it is important that you stay within one hour’s journey of a medical facility, in case you need assistance.

If any of these arrangements are not possible, please discuss alternatives with your doctor. It’s important to note that overnight admission is only an option if clinically necessary. Burnside Hospital cannot accept responsibility for patients who are unable to comply with these recommendations.

Please be aware that the time of discharge following a day procedure may vary depending on the type of surgery and your recovery progress. We’ll ensure that you are ready and well-informed before you leave us.

Discharge After Overnight or Longer Stays

Patients who have stayed overnight should plan to leave Burnside Hospital by 10am.

If you anticipate any challenges with transport or in-home care, we encourage you to speak with our pre admission nurse before your admission. They can provide helpful information about community services and may refer you to our Discharge Coordinator if more complex discharge planning is required. We're here to ensure your transition home is as smooth and supportive as possible.

Maternity Patients

Maternity patients should plan to leave Burnside Hospital by 10am. If you're unable to arrange transport until later, we are happy to assist you to a patient lounge where you can relax in comfort.

To ensure your newborn's safe transport, please make sure that a baby capsule is properly fitted in your car before you leave.

Discharge After Your Sleep Study

Your sleep study will conclude at approximately 6:15am. For your convenience, an en-suite bathroom is available and a light breakfast will be served at 7:00 am. You will be discharged by 7:30am.

If you need to leave earlier, please inform the technician.

Discharge Checklist

Before leaving, please make sure you have the following:

  • Your personal belongings (including any items from the safe in your room, if applicable).
  • Your x-rays or scans (including those taken during your hospital stay).
  • Discharge medications.
  • Equipment for discharge.
  • Discharge instructions, advice and contacts.

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High Acuity Care

Burnside Hospital acknowledges the Kaurna people as the Traditional Owners of the land and waters on which we live and care for our community.
We recognise their Native Title Rights to Country, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Visit burnsidehospital.asn.au for more information