Coming to Hospital

If you have an appointment for surgery, or an arranged admission, go straight to the Unit (Ward) indicated in your appointment information.  Upon arrival you will be introduced to staff.

We will place an identification bracelet on your wrist.  This will help us double check your identity before undertaking any tests or treatments.  Please wear it at all times while you are with us.

It includes your own personal identification number which is used by hospitals and other health services throughout New Zealand.

Valuables and Personal Belongings in Hospital

The Bay of Plenty District Health Board does not accept responsibility in the event of loss or theft of any personal property retained by you.

Items you will need in Hospital Where possible, please label clearly:  Nightwear and dressing gown Casual clothing / track suit Toothbrush and toothpaste Soap and shampoo Tissues Brush and comb Shaving gear Slippers Phone card Container or cases for glasses, hearing aids and dentures Walking stick or frame\Books Writing materials Having a Baby?  Click here to see the checklist of items to bring for mum and baby.

 

Tips For Safer Health Care

Be actively involved in your healthcare
Take part in every decision so you get the best possible care for your needs.

Speak up if you have any questions or concerns
Ask questions, and expect answers you can understand. Ask a family member, carer or interpreter to be there if you want.

Learn more about your condition or treatments
Collect as much reliable information as you can. Ask your health professional:

• What should I look out for?
• What else can you tell me about my condition, tests and treatment?
• How will the tests or treatments help me, and what is involved?
• What are the risks, and what is likely to happen if I don't have this treatment?

Get the results of any test or procedure
Ask who to call, when the results are expected to be ready and ask what they mean for your care.

Ask about your options
Ask how quickly you need the treatment, surgery or procedure - and if you can have it done as a day patient.

Make sure you understand what will happen
Ask what your treatment, surgery or procedure will involve, if there are any risks and what your options are. Tell your healthcare professional if you have allergies, or if you have ever had a bad reaction to any medicines.

Before you leave hospital, check what you need to do at home
Make sure you understand your continuing treatment, medicines and follow-up care.

Medicines

If you are taking any medications (pills, medicines or herbal remedies) please bring them with you and hand them to the nursing staff who will record what you are taking.  For those patients who are taking rongoa Maori, please advise your nurse or a member of the Maori Health team as some rongoa may affect prescribed medication.

If there are details or any treatment you need or allergies that you have please tell us.

The doctor will need to review your medication and any changes will be discussed with you.  We recommend you dispose of any pills/medicines that have been stopped.  Your nurse can help you with this.