Ward routine Dr Rob Hicks Going into hospital can be daunting, particularly if it's your first time. But a little investigation and preparation beforehand can help to make it less stressful.

In this article

Before you're admitted Checking in

During your stay Doctors' rounds

Checking out

If possible, contact the ward before you're admitted to find out its policies on:

• Visits
• Friends and relatives bringing in food
• Use of personal electronics (including mobile phones, TV and telephones)

On your arrival, you’ll be given a bed and a locker for your personal items. Don't bring too much as they’re usually quite small and aren’t secure, so leave valuable items such as jewellery and money at home.

Things to take with you

• Contact details of your next of kin
• Contact details of family and friends
• Regular medicines
• Night clothing
• Toiletries
• Books, magazines, puzzles
• Pen and paper
• Food snacks
• Personal radio/stereo (if allowed)

The nurse will check details such as your full name, address and date of birth along with information such as your religion, dietary preferences and details of your next of kin. They'll also measure your weight, blood pressure, pulse and temperature.

One of the doctors on the team looking after you will visit once you’re admitted and ask questions about your health and any medicines you take. They'll also examine you, although if you've been admitted from A&E this may have been done already.

If you're having an operation, an anaesthetist may also come to ask questions and examine you.

You may be asked the same questions by different people. This is routine and helps to make sure everyone has accurate information on you.

Usually, there are three nursing shifts during the day and night, with each shift accompanied by a 'hand-over' where nurses are updated on each patient and any specific care required.

The first routine activity of the day will be a hot drink, breakfast and the medication round. This is followed by bathroom activities, with nurses assisting those who can't manage alone.

A nurse will measure your pulse, blood pressure and temperature at regular intervals and issue your medication at the appropriate times.

Blood tests or x-rays are carried out on the ward or in the respective laboratory or department.

Breakfast, lunch and an evening meal are provided and you’ll be asked to make your selection at least the day before. There's a wide choice of foods to accommodate all needs and dietary requirements.

You'll be looked after by a team of doctors led by a consultant. Make a note of their name, in case anyone needs to know.

On certain days the whole team will see you during what's known as the 'consultant ward round' and you'll have daily visits from at least one member of the team.

These visits aren't just for them to tell you things - they're an opportunity for you to tell them how you're feeling and ask any questions you may have.

Whenever a healthcare professional comes to see you during your stay, they should explain what they're doing or plan to do. If they don't - or you don't understand what they've said - don't be afraid to ask them to explain.

Many hospitals train student doctors on the rounds. If at any time you'd prefer they weren't present during your examination, just say so. No one will mind.

When discharged from the ward, you will be given a supply of your medication your hospital doctor has prescribed and possibly a list to pass on to your GP.

Remember to check whether the hospital doctor wishes to see you in their outpatient clinic.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in February 2007.