Would you book a hotel if you can't get a hospital bed post-surgery?

Fionne

Long story short, I've been waiting 14months to see a consultant about a spine problem that's meant I can't sit down (I know it sounds like a joke but believe me it's not!) since July 2021. The absolute incompetence of my GP has meant I've had to wait this long despite having health insurance.

Anyhow, I finally saw a consultant who wants to do surgery in 3 weeks time. It's general anaesthetic and surgery on my spine so would normally be an overnight stay. However, because it's being done in CUH, where there are no beds available, he said the only choice is to do it as a day procedure so I'd have to come home the same day.

He asked how far away I live - it's 35 miles, a good 45 mins drive if going at normal speed, obviously longer if driving carefully as I would be post-surgery.

If I was covered for the Mater Private (I'm not), where he also works, there would be no question of not staying overnight so they could discharge you with some degree of confidence you had come through the immediate post-surgery period intact.

Do you think I'd be best off booking into a hotel for that night? I'd be closer to a hospital if I did have complications plus I wouldn't have the long drive home to face until the next day.

On the other hand, if I got as far as home the day of surgery, then I wouldn't have to move again until I felt able to. I really don't know what best to do.

cml387

I would be amazed if any doctor discharged you immediately post op without being accompanied buy someone to watch you.

apache

What exactly is the surgery? It would depend if it warranted an overnight hospital stay.

You shouldn't and probably wouldn't be able to drive for a few weeks.

Mrs OBumble

You aren't insured to drive for some weeks after a general anesthetic. You'd insurance company will tell you how many.

But presumably someone else is driving you.

If not, then 200% book a hotel room. Or ask the surgeon if there are any local hospitals that do step down card and which might had a bed (will cost more than a hotel but worth it if there are any issues.)

apache

I just saw the op's other thread. A spinal decompression? You should be staying in overnight in a hospital and there's no way you would be able to drive after it.

Bicyclette

Book into the nearest nursing home for a few days. You will have nurses in situ and you can claim tax relief on it as well.

Beasty

This thread is essentially seeking advice on what to do after undergoing surgery which contravenes site rules. You need to ask the hospital or consultant what their advice/requirements are

Closed