Day-Case Procedures

An outpatient procedure is a test or treatment carried out in one of our outpatient clinics. It’s simple enough for you to go home shortly afterwards, without needing time in a recovery area. This includes tests and treatments such as blood tests, scans, injections, and other minor procedures.

A day-case procedure usually takes place in a procedure room, or operating theatre, and requires a period of monitored recovery before you go home later the same day. If you have a day-case procedure in the surgical centre at Welbeck, you’ll have your own private room to prepare and recover in, supported by our dedicated nursing team. After a day-case procedure, you’ll usually need someone to collect you, especially if you’ve had a general anaesthetic or sedation.

The pre-assessment team will be in touch prior to your procedure and outline everything you need to do beforehand, such as fasting, any medication adjustments, and if you’ll need to arrange for someone to collect you. If anything is unclear, please contact your centre for advice. On the day of your procedure, it’s helpful to wear comfortable clothing that’s easy to take off and put on and remove all jewellery and nail polish.

After your procedure, you’ll rest in your private pod, supported by a specialist nursing team, until you feel well enough to go home. Your team will give you personalised aftercare instructions, including information on pain relief. You’ll need someone to collect you after your procedure, even if you feel well, and you won’t be able to drive for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic or sedation. 

If you have concerns once you're home, please get in touch with your consultant.

Yes. You must have a responsible adult collect you after your day-case procedure, even if you feel well. This is essential for your safety, especially if you’ve had sedation or a general anaesthetic. You shouldn’t drive, cycle, or travel alone for at least 24 hours.