Prior to your surgery, you will be contacted by the Day Surgery Coordinator, a nurse, who will advise you of pre-operative preparation plan your discharge, discuss any community service that you may require after discharge and make your follow up appointments.
On the day of your day surgery
After arriving at the Foundation please proceed to Level 1 Reception Desk via the lift or stairs and register.
If you have not all ready completed a Patient Profile (admission form) you will be asked to do so.
The reception staff will show you to the waiting area point out the direction of the conveniences and instruct you on how to access the refreshments provided for you and your carer.
If someone has accompanied you, he/she will be given a visitor name badge. This is for the security of patients and staff as it ensures that only authorised personnel have access to the building.
Preparation for Surgery
The best preparation for Mohs surgery is a good night's rest followed by a substantial breakfast.
- Wash your hair the night before, or morning of your surgery.
- Do not wear make-up on your surgery day.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, such as a tracksuit, slacks, a cardigan, a short-sleeved shirt or blouse and comfortable shoes (shoes stay on your feet). An old shirt is preferable.
- Because you will be with us for at least half a day, please bring a packed lunch and it is wise to bring a book or magazine to read.
- Tea/coffee and biscuits are provided.
- At home, please have Panadol or Panadeine for pain relief, and an ice-pack or frozen peas pack, ready to use after you return home from your surgery.
- Do not stop taking any of your medication unless instructed by your surgeon. Discontinue vitamin and mineral therapy for at least a week before the surgery.
- It is most important that you do not go home alone.
- Please arrange for a relative or friend to accompany you either by private transport or taxi. You must not go home on public transport or drive following your surgery.
For your comfort
Patients at the day clinic for Mohs surgery and their carers have a special waiting area.
- Lounge chairs are provided so that patients may rest during the various stages of the procedure.
- Various magazines and a television are also provided.
- Light refreshments are available, but the Foundation does not supply meals to patients. You may wish to bring food with you or, alternatively, there are several cafes in the area.
- We encourage you to leave anything of value, such as jewellery, at home. The Foundation cannot accept responsibility for loss of valuables or money.
Mobile phones
Mobile phones can interfere with electronic medical equipment so we ask you to consult with staff before using a mobile phone within the Day Clinic.
Medications
Please bring with you any medications you need to take during your stay.
If you are a diabetic requiring regular blood glucose levels recorded please bring in your own monitor to ensure currency of readings throughout the procedure.
Clothes
Wear something comfortable, preferably a shirt or dress that can be undone from the front.
Shoes should also be comfortable. For your own safety please do not wear slippers or high heels.
The procedure room is air conditioned and sometimes the temperature can be quite cold, so it is a good idea to bring a cardigan or a light jacket.
Smoke-free environment
Please note that the Westmead Day Clinic and the car park next to the building are both smoke free areas.
If you are having Mohs surgery at Westmead your nurse or doctor will provide you with all the details required. For your convenience here is some information to prepare you.
If you have any concerns about your surgery, please contact the nursing staff at the Foundation on (02) 8833 3000 (Monday to Friday, 7.00am - 5.30pm) before your surgery day.