Introduction and Request for Info

Hi, This is my first post on this board. I am a nurse and live in North East, Maryland. I have been working toward WLS since 4/04. I completed my PRMI classes in late December and am scheduled for surgery on February 7th (I originally had Jan 10th, but had to reschedule for work). I am so very excited! My question is this, what should I bring to the hospital with me. Should I take a nightgown and robe, or just wear the hospital gown while there? Should I take my CPAP with me? Do you think that they would let me use my own glucometer (I have a Free Style that doesn't hurt like those finger stick monitors)? Any advice would be most welcome! Thanks in advance, Donna

Hi Donna Definately take your CPAP, I was told not to come without it. You might want a robe as you will WALK, WALK, WALK and probably feel a lot less self-concious with one. The gown is your choice (I have never worn one - LOL) and the glucometer is also. I did not take my glucometer as the nurses seemed more comfortable with their own, just ask. I am two weeks out now and the best advice I caould give you is to get plenty of rest ahead of time. Seems as if they were waking me every five minutes to take blood, make me breath and cough. And its seems to be planned so that the three are never synchronized. Good luck, your day will be here before you realize it.

Welcome, Donna. Congrats on your upcoming date. C-Pap machine is a must. Everything else is optional. I recommend chapstick, babywipes and that's about it. Others have brought their own pillows especially the "moshi" ones for comfort as it is hard to find a comfy spot for some. Good luck and post and let us know how you did. Ask all the questions you want, someone is sure to answer them. Dianne

Welcome Donna, . Bring chapstick, a brush, comb and toothbrush & toothpaste. The robe and non-skid slippers are given to you when you are admitted. When you first get to your room post surgery you are still hooked up to all kind of monitors. I couldn't get a robe on around all the wires & tubes. Make a phone list for your family to be notified. I brought my c-pap and the nurses hooked the oxygen right into it. I had a Bari-bear to hold against my tummy, or rest my arm on, coutesy of my Angel Leigh. Wear comfy clothes cause you'll go home in the same stuff. My guess is you use what the nurses are accustomed to. Good luck and feel free to ask away. Elissa

Hi Donna! Welcome & congratulations! There is nothing I can add to your hosptital stay...the less you take, the less you bring home... Best of luck in your journey! Valerie

Hi Donna, First off let me say congratulations! I am only 5 days out and I do not have the machines that you use but almost everyone on here give GOOD advice. I did use my chapstick it helped alot. Best of luck on your journey and hope to talk to you soon!! Christie~5 days post op