To leave him alone (for a couple of hours) 12 hours after general anaesthetic

[awsedrftghyh]

My (fit, healthy, 71 YO) father had a biopsy at 2pm today under general anaesthetic. It's a minor op obviously but the location (inside throat) means it will be done under general anaesthetic.
He has had the op and is now in recovery, I'm picking him up at 6pm.

The hospital told him the usual advice is not to be left alone for 24 hours after general anaesthetic.

I had something planned that means being out from 6-8am tomorrow morning. I really want to go but easily could and am more than willing to cancel.

He thinks I should still go because he will be asleep at that time anyway, and I obviously wouldn't be watching him sleep but would likely be downstairs, or asleep myself if I don't go out. He thinks it won't matter if I 'pop out'. I'm a bit more cautious.

What would you do?

YABU - don't go, too risky
YANBU - go, the risk is very negligible

I would have expected that your dm had carers. If she needed incontinence care and was immobile there must have been a hcp team responsible?

Your df should have told you about his hospital appointment, does he have cognitive issues? If so more reason to keep an eye.

I'm sorry you've had a tough few year and for the loss of your dear mum and now Dad's poor health

This plan sounds really reasonable, balancing your dad's needs and wants.

I

Thank you - it’s scary and not nice to witness.