Preparing for Hospital

Admission

Unless you are admitted via the Emergency Department, you will receive a phone call or letter to let you know when to expect you to come to hospital.

It is very important that you contact St Vincent's to confirm your booking. Due to the heavy demand for hospital treatment, if you do not confirm the date we may have to cancel your admission.

Pre-admission

You may be asked to attend a pre-admission clinic prior to your surgery. You will be notified by letter detailing your appointment details and where you need to go.

Surgery

If you are having surgery, it is most likely that you will be asked to come to hospital on the day of your surgery. In the past, surgery patients were admitted the day before but this would only happen if your care team judged it medically necessary.

The day before your surgery you will receive a phone call from the hospital telling you what time to arrive and where to come. We will also give you any further instructions.

What to bring

Please bring the following important items with your admission details. 

You can use this checklist to help you:

  • Medicare card
  • Pension card
  • Health fund membership details
  • Health Care Card, if you are eligible for healthcare assistance
  • If you are eligible for WorkCover or you are being admitted to hospital following a road accident, we require your claim number and insurance details
  • Veterans’ Card, if applicable
  • Current x-rays

 

During your stay in hospital you will need:

  • Pyjamas or night gown
  • Dressing gown
  • Non-slip, supportive slippers or shoes
  • Toiletries (including tissues)
  • Any medication that you are taking (please give this to your nurse upon admission)
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Money for television and telephone

You may also like to bring items to pass the time such as books, magazines or craftwork.

Where should I go when I arrive?

Medical and surgical patients

Pedestrians enter at Building B, 55 Victoria Parade and cross the central courtyard to Building A - Main Hospital. Click here to see maps and public transportation information.

Building A - Main Hospital entrance is to the left as you approach both the underground and multi-storey car parks from  Fitzroy Street.

Take the lift to the floor of your particular Care Centre or Day Procedures Centre. If you are unsure about which floor you need to go to, please ask at the main reception located in the ground floor foyer.

You will be greeted at the Care Centre or the Day Procedures Centre reception desk where our friendly staff will help you to get started.

How long will I stay in hospital?

The number of days depends on many factors including your age, general health and the reason for your admission. Please ask your doctor or nurse for an expected discharge date so that you can arrange transport home.

Pre-admission

You may be asked to attend a pre-admission clinic prior to your surgery. You will be notified by letter detailing your appointment details and where you need to go.


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