It's getting real now
Had my final pre-op meeting with my surgeon today. Signed the consents (those forms are scary!), picked up my two week pre-op liquid diet (ugh), and received my surgery and post-op instructions including my shopping lists of vitamins and things to have in the house when I come home. Some updated labs and a final appointment with the nutritionist, and then January 9th will be right around the corner. Gulp.
I'm wondering if anyone has gotten a list of things to bring with them to the hospital? I wasn't told much beyond wear comfortable clothing, leave the valuables at home, and bring the CPAP with me. I've never stayed in the hospital overnight, and there must be more to it than that. Pretty sure I've seen a list someplace, just can't access where at the moment. Any ideas?
Janice
Hi Janice,
Congrats on beginning your journey! I just got my surgery date of January 22, so I will not be that far behind you. I have seen a list somewhere too, but cannot find it. I am, however, a nurse and could recommend some things that you may want to bring. Yes soft comfortable clothes, but if you have a drain or a heart monitor, you will probably want button up shirts. MAke sure you bring socks and slippers from home too. Chap stick or some kind of moisturizer for your lips and skin is good, hospitals are dry. I will bring ear plugs as well, it can be noisy. Bring any comfort items from home that will ensure you get the most rest you can, ipod, books to read, comfy blanket or robe. Bring shoes you can walk the halls in, slippers with a sole is best. You will need to walk all of that gas out of your abdomen, chest. Good luck!
Jen
Hi Janice,
I went for my final visit before surgery today and picked up my Optifast for my 2 weeks of liquids. My date is Jan 4th. I've searched for a list up here of things that ppl take with them and the #1 item is CHAPSTICK! I plan on taking chapstick, lotion, comfy clothes for going home in, few pr of undies, a sports bra, robe, bedroom shoes for walking the halls, my meds, gas x strips (also recommended), and Biotene mouth spray for dryness. I'm sure I forgot something but those are my basics. I don't plan on taking my phone/purse. Mom can keep up with my ins card and drivers lic.
Good luck to you!!
Brandy
Spent some time in Target tonight--picked up the chapstick, slipper socks, Pond's wet cleansing towelettes, and some Colgate wisp on-the-go disposable toothbrushes that don't require water or rinsing (in the travel section). Couldn't find the Biotene or Gas-X strips, and must remember to grab some earplugs from work (I'm an audiologist).
Of course, I also picked up a bunch of other stuff--can rarely make it out of Target without spending $$$. I'm fairly certain that bulls-eye sends you into a hypnotic trance when you enter the store!
Good luck to all. I just got my date Jan 24th and it is becoming real now. After the holidays I will start to pack my overnight back and agree, I have heard Chapstick is a must..