1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Little time is available to admit, examine and investigate day only patients. Therefore patients with significant co-morbidities i.e. ASA>2 patients should be referred to the Pre-Admission Clinic for assessment prior to day only surgery.

1.2 These patients must also be able to return home within a short time after surgery and anaesthesia, hence the time available for post-anaesthetic supervision is restricted.

1.3 Techniques of anaesthesia suitable to high turnover and quick recovery are desirable.

1.4 Surgical procedures are limited to those where pain can be controlled by oral analgesia, a normal diet and activities of daily living can be quickly resumed. Age by itself is no barrier to a patient's suitability for day stay surgery.

1.5 Any doubts regarding a patient's day-only status can be referred to the consultant anaesthetist on duty between the hours of 7.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. (0730 and 1750 hours Monday to Friday. The duty anaesthetist can be contacted on Page 08460.