Pre-Operative Assessment & Admissions Unit

The Pre-Operative Assessment & Admissions Unit (PAAU) is where we carry out assessments for all patients who are having a planned operation. If patients require an overnight stay after their surgery, they will be admitted to the PAAU on the day of their operation.

Pre-operative assessment

Pre-operative assessments ensure that you are as safe as possible during and after your surgery. We aim to make sure that you are fully informed about the procedure and the post-operative recovery, that you’re well enough for surgery, and that you’ve made arrangements for admission and discharge.

During your assessment, one of our nurses will complete a health assessment and undertake any necessary pre-operative tests. We will give you written and verbal information about you operation and give you an idea of what to expect. We’ll also provide post-operative and discharge advice.

We undertake a range of different operations and surgical procedures. These include:

  • Gynaecological surgery
  • Urological surgery
  • Orthopaedic surgery
  • Ear, nose, and throat surgery
  • Colorectal surgery
  • Breast surgery

Depending on the procedure, you may be able to return home on the day of your surgery. If you need to stay overnight, you will need to return to the PAAU on the morning of your surgery to be admitted.

Location

The Pre-Operative Assessment & Admissions Unit (PAAU) is located on the first floor, Abbey Wing, Harrogate District Hospital.

Key staff

Unit Manager: Deb Carter

Matron: Lesley Danby