Endoscopy

Visiting us for a procedure

If you are being admitted as a day case, you will be sent detailed information through the post about your procedure and how to prepare for it. It is very important that you follow the instructions given. Should you have any questions, or are unsure in any way, please contact us and a member of staff will be able to assist you.

On the day of your appointment, always remember to bring the details of any tablets or medications that you are taking.

Please report to the reception desk on the Endoscopy Unit on arrival to the hospital where you will be checked into the department and directed to the waiting area. A nurse will collect your necessary details and prepare you for your test. Everything will be explained and you may ask any questions you have. You will be asked to sign a consent form to show that you understand the benefits, risks and alternatives of your procedure and that you agree to go ahead with it.

For some procedures, you may be asked to change into a gown. You might like to have a pair of slippers and a dressing gown with you. Please do not bring valuable items with you. The Trust will not accept responsibility for your belongings during your admission.

The Endoscopy Unit strives to ensure your privacy and dignity is maintained at all times and we have the following systems and resources in place.

• Single sex waiting and recovery areas.
• Private bowel preparation rooms with ensuite toilet facilities and door curtain screens.
• Provision of theatre gown, dressing gowns, and disposable privacy pants.

Your procedure will be carried out by a suitably trained member of staff – either a doctor or specialist nurse – who is involved in performing these procedures on a regular basis.

Following your procedure, you may be offered refreshments depending on the aftercare of your specific test.

We will discuss the results of your test and provide written and verbal aftercare and follow-up information. As a general rule, we will ask you to see your GP for any recommended medication. Urgent medication will be provided by the pharmacy department before you go home. You will be required to pay for this unless exempt.

Our Team

Staff on the unit you may meet are:

• Doctors and Specialist Nurses
• Unit Manager
• Sister/Charge Nurse
• Staff Nurses
• Registered Nursing Associates
• Healthcare Support Workers
• Porter
• Housekeepers

Patient information

We perform a range of endoscopic procedures for both inpatients and outpatients.

Outpatients will be sent a leaflet containing essential information about their test. We will also provide additional written and verbal discharge advice after your procedure. If we make a diagnosis, we will give written information on relevant medical conditions.

Feedback

We are continuously striving to improve our services. Your views are very important to us. Should you have any feedback, comments or suggestions, please complete our online patient survey or contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service.

Please help us improve our service by completing a patient survey for the hospital site that you visited:

• Manchester Royal Infirmary
• North Manchester General
• Trafford General
• Wythenshawe Hospital

Interpreter Services

If English is not your first language and you require clarification of the instructions you have been sent, or require an interpreter, please contact us on the number provided on your appointment letter.

Referral Information

Referrals for endoscopy are received from GPs, hospital consultants, specialist nursing teams, and straight to test clinics. We see inpatients, outpatients and emergency cases.

Contact Details, Opening Hours and Directions

Please Note: Your appointment may be carried out at any of the endoscopy sites across Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

Please check your appointment letter to make sure you attend the right unit.