A goofey question I know..but what just curious???

I know this is a silly question but I went today and did my pre-op labs and such, so I was thinking during my 2+ hrs home. What did you all take to the hospital to make you more comfortable and etc. and are there things that you wish you would have taken? I have not spent the night in the hospital except for when I had my daughter, and I was on cloud nine then and I am sure items I need were totally different. I know the basic stuff like toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. But little things is what I was thinking. Anyway, just thought I would ask. --Angela

I brought a small fan and made sure I had comfortable clothes to wear home. I definately wish I had a portable CD player or some books to read. The 2nd night was really boring cause I couldn't sleep and nothing was on TV, a gameboy would have been nice! lol. I've heard of people bringing pictures from home and anything to pass the time. Hope this helps. Take care.

Thanks Tony, as always you give great advice. I would have never thought about some of those. I am not looking forward to the hospital stay. After my c-section with my daughter, I was so ready to go home the next morning. I just hate being there. Funny you would never have guessed me as a nurse haha. --Angela

Angela, Speaking from experience now. Since your female you want to pack some personal hygiene items as your period usually starts right after surgery even if you have just had one. I was lucky and mine waited about 4 days after. I had a good time with my crossword puzzle book I took, I also took every available opportunity to get up and walk walk walk. If i was bored I walked. Probably drove my nurses crazy unhooking me and hooking me back up, but then again..thats there job. Comfy clothes for going home in is a must as you might be a little swollen in the abdomen after surgery and some slippers for when you walk. pajamas are a waste since you are hooked up to so much stuff, I just used the hospital gowns, one for the front and one for the back.

Pack lip balm. You're really going to need it because you're so thristy. If your hair is long bring a pony tail holder or head band. Also house shoes because you'll be walking a lot. I brought a book & that helped pass time. My room had a CD player & I wished I'd brought some with me. Good luck!!!!

Thanks everyone, these are really great ideas, I really appreciate it. --Angela

Hi Angela, I had my surgery Open and I am not sure which u r having so I will tell u about my experience. I took a word find book, books to read, etc. BUT, after surgery I didn't feel like doing much of anything the first couple of days. I was in the hospital 5 days and just didn't do much but walk. They got me up and helped me clean up every morning and I sat up a while, walked, rested. I didn't do much. I bought a real comfy night gown to wear home. When u go home make sure u have a pillow to hold over your belly cause u have a long ride. We went past Smiths Grove tonight. We go to Bowling Green to pick up my stepson who lives in Nashville every other weekend. Good luck and I would say if u r having Lap u might feel more like doing stuff I don't know...Sorry I am not more help, lol.

Thanks Angela, I am having the Lap so I hope I will not have to stay but 2 days, that is what Dr Geller said. Well as long as I am doing ok. Everyone has had such good ideas, I think I am going to start making a list of things I like to use everyday and things you all have suggested, keeping it small of course. That way I will hopefully have everything I need. The pillow is a great idea, I remember when I had my c-section and only had 5 miles to go and it was bad, this is going to be rough. --Angela

HI Angela, Take your own pillow from home. The ones I had were flat and awful. Made hubby bring mine to me the next day.. Also, take slip on shoes to wear home. That way you do not have to worry about anything but sliding your foot in. I took a book to pass the time. Did not read it alot as I was always walking then sleeping.lol At anyrate, good luck!

The bariatric unit should provide you with the CD player and fan. Definately bring chap stick as your lips will get so dry and may crack and bleed. If you bring your pillow, put it in a colorful pillowcase or it may get lost with the other hospital pillows. Make it stand out so there is no mistaking it for the hospital issue! A camera is a good idea as some of our patients like to have their picture made right before going in to surgery. Some like pics with the nurses and always with the surgeons! Maybe a journal if you are documenting your WLS journey. Loose fitting , easy to get on clothing for the ride home. A lot of our patients bring in lap top computers to use as they can't wait to start posting about their surgery. Good Luck! Cathi Roskind, RN Education/Support Coordinator The Bariatric Center at Georgetown