Experiences of the Ryde Hospital Day Only Unit in 1986 and 1987.

OBJECTIVE

To monitor and summarise activity of a Day Only Unit as a guide to management.

METHOD

Attitude survey (patient questionnaire) of adults admitted to the Day Only Unit over a six week period, a telephone survey and an ongoing monthly record review of length of stay and complications.

RESULTS

The level of "day only" activity is increasing and procedures affecting the quality of care of these patients are being improved. Patients not receiving pre-medications had fewer post-operative symptoms. The most frequent patient complaint related to the coldness of the ward.