Pre-operative advice is given in writing at the assessment visit (or by telephone for acute referrals). The following important points are highlighted to each patient verbally at the assessment.

Escort

The escort needs to be a responsible adult who is able to escort them to the clinic on the treatment day, to remain in the practice while treatment is being carried out, and to take them home and remain with the patient until the following day.

Transport

It is emphasised that this should be by private transport. If transport home cannot be arranged by private car, then a taxi will be organised for the patient. Patients are warned in advance that it will not be acceptable for them to use public transport or drive for 24 hrs after their treatment.

Need for appropriate childcare

Patients with children will need to arrange childcare for the post-operative period. Parents with small children are advised to bring only the patient to the treatment session and to arrange childcare for the other children.

Starving

Patients are advised that they must be starved for six hours prior to the appointment for consultant anaesthetist-given sedation, and for two hours before simple sedation with RA or single drug intravenous sedation.

EMLA

Topical anaesthetic cream for patients will be supplied to improve tolerance of venepuncture if required. Patients are issued with written advice and instructions of how this product should be used.

Treatment Plan and Estimates

An estimate of the NHS cost of treatment if appropriate, including charges for failure to attend, is given to the patient so that any queries can be dealt with before the treatment session. NHS fee-paying patients are warned that charges may change during treatment and in some cases an additional visit may be required, which will incur further cost. Non-NHS fee-paying patients will be asked to settle their accounts before they are sedated.

Consent

Written consent is obtained before booking the treatment appointment. This will involve consenting to the treatment proposed and also to the method of anxiety management.

Consent will be obtained from the patient if they are of the age of reason. The parent or guardian of all patients under 16 years must accompany the patient to the assessment visit, and will be asked to give their written consent.