The Cherwell Unit is a pre-operative assessment (pre-assessment) unit for planned Orthopaedic, General Surgery, Urology, ENT, Day Surgery and Gynaecology cases.
Our aim is to ensure that you are fit prior to undergoing surgery and a general anaesthetic. If necessary we will refer you for further clinical investigation before your procedure.
Depending upon the priority of your case, you will be invited to pre-assessment approximately 12 weeks after your GP has referred you to the hospital. At the Cherwell Unit, you will have a consultation with a qualified nurse.
After this, you may need to undergo various tests with a Nursing Auxiliary, which may include screening for MRSA, an urine test, ECG, blood test, height and weight and blood pressure check. Depending on the type of clinic you are attending, you may then see your consultant. The Occupational Therapist may speak to you regarding your furniture at home depending on the type of Orthopaedic Surgery you are having. If you are having joint replacement surgery such as replacement knees or hips, you will also be invited to an education class in our Education Room. The class starts at 12 noon and lasts for one hour. The purpose of the class is to ensure that you have all the information you need prior to surgery. We are happy for your relatives to join you as it will give you both the opportunity to ask questions.
During your assessment, your Nurse may wish to refer you to an Anaesthetist for an opinion about whether you are suitable for a general anaesthetic. If this is the case, every effort will be made to arrange an appointment for you on the same day as your assessment.
Following an anaesthetic assessment, it may be necessary for you to have further tests before surgery. These will be arranged by the Nursing staff at the Cherwell Unit.
Following your outpatient appointment, you may have been asked to attend the Cherwell Unit with your booking card. When you arrive, you will be asked to complete a health screening questionnaire. This enables a qualified Nurse to carry out an assessment and to decide what tests, if any, you need before surgery. If you need any tests, these will be carried out whilst you are at the Cherwell Unit by a Nursing Auxiliary. If we have not seen you following your outpatient appointment, we will contact you either via phone or letter to arrange a pre-assessment appointment prior to your procedure.
Each ward allows visiting 2.30pm - 5pm and 6pm - 8pm. This is to allow protected meal times, drug administration and continuity of care for patients throughout the hospital. Please be aware that most wards do not accept flowers. Please contact the ward directly if you have any questions.