All of us should be practising good social distancing and hand hygiene to lower our chances of catching COVID-19. You should be especially careful about this in the 14 days before your admission for surgery.
These measures alone should be sufficient to stop you contracting the virus before your surgery. However, you may choose to isolate more strictly within your own home for this time, particularly if you have other medical problems, are over 65 or on recommendation of the Doctor arranging your surgery.
As part of our admission process, you will need to have a swab test 72- 48 hours prior to your admission for surgery. The test will be provided by your local Health Board. The team that contact you for this may use a withheld number. If you require some additional tests ahead of your procedure your hospital team will further advise you of what is required. Following the test we ask that you adhere to the strict pre-operative self-isolation advice as over the page, until your admission to hospital.
You can only be admitted for your procedure if you (and your household members) have had no symptoms of COVID-19 infection, have isolated following the instructions below and you have had a negative COVID-19 swab. If you (or a household member) develop COVID-19 symptoms, don’t adequately isolate or have a positive swab, for everyone’s safety your procedure will be postponed until we can be sure that it is safe to proceed.
Please follow all of the instructions below after your swab test until your admission to hospital.
There are plenty of ways to plan and prepare for self-isolation, and so many things you can do to keep preoccupied and maintain your wellbeing while staying at home. Try not to think about what you can’t do – focus on what you can do, like nurturing your interests and relationships, and focusing on self-care.
Physical activity releases anxiety-reducing chemicals, while acting as a healthy distraction. There are many things you can do to keep exercising inside your home even if you’re self-isolating.
Good nutrition has a positive impact on your mood, while boosting your energy and immunity. It’s a good idea to plan your meals ahead so you know whether you have enough food to last you, as well as any family members or pets.
It’s a good idea to stick to a routine to give your day’s structure and balance.
Aim to wake up and go to bed at the same time, and have three meals at the same time each day – not forgetting to weave in regular breaks for water, exercise and fresh air.
It’s important to keep in touch with your friends and family. Text or call regularly to talk about the situation and how you’re coping. Or why not schedule in a video chat so you can still ‘see’ each other? A number of electronic devices are available throughout Cardiff and Vale UHB to support you with virtual visiting during your stay.
We will encourage you to utilise this service as much as possible.
The advice on these pages is designed to help you prepare for the treatment ahead and support you through to recovery.
If you need further advice and support please discuss this with your key worker or healthcare professional.
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