Brigham and Woman's Hospital
Hi Stephanie, I had my Open RNY at Brigham & Women's with Dr. Robinson. I cannot say enough about the good care I received . The nursing staff was very nice and quick to respond when I had a problem. Even the nursing assts were good. My hosp. roomate and I were joking about hiring one of them to come home with us. My surgery was in Feb of 2002.
Epidural - Yes
Loopy drugs... the first day. No choice with that. They have you hooked up when you go into the recovery room. You're on a pain pump so you control how much and when.
I think I used the pump twice on the second day (after getting out of bed and taking a walk) but then I was all set. The prescribed some liquid pain meds for me when I went home, but it's still in my fridge. All I will say is there's no need for you to be in pain. You will be less mobile if you are so it's better to take the meds and move. Just my two cents.
Best of luck with you! You'll do fine.
- Sharon