Welcome
Welcome to the Programmed Investigation Unit (PIU) at Rochdale Infirmary.
This leaflet is designed to help you understand what to expect during your visit and to answer some common questions.
What is the PIU?
The Programmed Investigation Unit is a dedicated area for patients attending planned procedures, investigations, and treatments that do not usually require an overnight stay.
Our aim is to provide you with high-quality care in a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment.
Before your visit
You will receive an appointment letter with details of your procedure. Please read your instructions carefully, as you may be asked to:
- Avoid eating or drinking before your procedure
- Bring a list of your current medications
- Arrange for someone to accompany you and collect you afterwards
- Due to safety concerns, children cannot attend the unit while their guardian has treatment, the appointment will be cancelled and rearranged
- Please note that relatives are not allowed to stay with patients except under special circumstances – Please contact the Ward before your appointment to discuss this
If you have any questions before your visit, please contact the number on your appointment letter.
On arrival
- Report to the Programmed Investigation Unit Reception
- Our receptionist will welcome you, confirm your details
- A nurse will explain what will happen during your stay
During your stay
The nursing team will look after you and prepare you for your investigation, treatment or procedure and will discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions.
Please let the staff know if you feel anxious or have any concerns.
After your procedure
- You will be monitored until you are ready to go home
- The team will give you advice about any drug side effects, eating, drinking, and resting afterwards
- Written information and follow-up instructions will be provided before you leave
- You may need to book your next appointment before you leave at reception
What to bring
- Your appointment letter
- Any prescribed medications (in their original packaging)
- Reading glasses or hearing aids if you use them
- Something to read or do whilst you wait
Please avoid bringing valuables as the hospital cannot be responsible for lost items.
Visiting and Companions
Space in the unit is limited, so we ask that only one relative or friend accompanies you to the Unit if necessary and please bear in mind they are not allowed to stay with you.
Finding us
The Programmed Investigation Unit is located at:
Rochdale Infirmary
Level C
Whitehall Street
Rochdale
OL12 0NB
Follow the signs for the PIU from the main entrance. Staff at reception will be happy to help if you need directions.
Contact details
If you have any questions before your appointment, please contact:
Programmed Investigation Unit, Rochdale Infirmary on 01706 517488
For general hospital enquires - 061 624 0420
Remember: If you are unable to attend your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so we can rearrange.
Feedback
We welcome your feedback to help us improve our services. You may be asked to complete a short survey after your visit.
Date of Review: October 2025
Date of Next Review: October 2027
Ref No: PI_M_2157 (Rochdale)