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Information for parents and carers of children and young people.

A day unit is a special facility within a hospital which enables patients to receive their treatment during daytime hours without the need to stay overnight. Most families find this more convenient and less disruptive.

The day unit is part of Sir William Coxen Ward (known as Coxen Ward), located on the first floor of the Stanmore Building at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital.

If your child has a cold, is unwell or you need to cancel your appointment, please phone pre-assessment on 0208 909 5630, if unavailable, please contact Coxen Ward on 020 8909 5487.

If your child requires an anaesthetic, it is very important that the fasting instructions are followed. Please refer to the instructions on the pre-assessment webpage.

One parent or carer may accompany a child on the unit. Please ensure that you arrange appropriate childcare for any other children.

You will meet the nurse who will care for your child whilst they are in hospital. Your nurse will complete their admission paperwork and take some basic observations.

You will also meet your anaesthetist who will assess your child and talk with you about their anaesthetic. You may also need to sign a consent form for the procedure with the admitting team. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions. All young people over the age of 16 should sign their own consent form unless they lack the capacity to do so.

You will also meet other teams of professionals during your stay, including play specialists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

After the procedure your child will need to stay until they have had something to eat and drink and it is safe for them to be discharged home.

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When your child has fully recovered they will be discharged home with any medicines needed and their next appointment if required. It usually takes around two hours after the procedure to be ready for home.

We do not provide over the counter painkillers for home use, so you should ensure you have suitable paracetamol or ibuprofen at home. Please contact us if you have any queries after you have left the hospital. The phone number for Coxen Ward is listed below.

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Specialised feeding equipment
 

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  • There are several canteen and café facilities within the hospital site. 
  • Food on the ward is for patients only.
  • Free Wi-Fi and patient entertainment is available.
  • The hospital car park is free of charge.

If you use public transport to attend the hospital, please make sure that you have arranged transport home for you and your child in a car. Your child cannot go home via public transport.

Coxen Ward telephone: 020 8909 5487

For additional information on Sir William Coxen Ward please go to the Trust website

The RCOA website has additional resources and information for children, parents and carers about anaesthetics:

Printing of this document is only valid on the day printed, please refer to the website for most up to date information:

https://www.rnoh.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/patient-information-guides/children-and-young-people-day-case-unit-patients-guide

Page last updated: 06 May 2025