What should I expect?

So, I'm sitting here at work, checking out the boards and I'm wondering.  What should I expect?  How long should I expect to be in the hospital, how long will I be out of work?  I am going to be in a lot of pain?  What should I bring with me to the hospital?  So many questions.... Robyn

Robyn ~ as fas as what to expect, everyone is different and all of the Docs are different. So no two surgery experiences are alike :) If you are getting lap RNY you will probably be in hospital for 2 days. Most people are out of work 2 weeks, some go back after a week and some longer. I took 3 just because I could :) Pain seems to be minimal, for me the first night was the worst and the pain pump handled it just fine. I quit taking pain meds when I got home. As far as what to bring to the hospitalI brought my own shampoo, lotion etc just because I think the stuff they provide is junk! I am glad I did, they didn't even have conditioner, I would never have gotten a comb trough my hair. The best thing I brought was pajama bottoms and my own undies. Once the catheter came out it was nice to not moon everyone everytime I moved. Also, I brought my own robe but they provide those too. I treated myself to a nice sweatsuit outfit to wear to and from the hospital, it was also nice to have when I was home the first few days for when visitors came by or I was running an errand. It was comfy but  wasn't jammies. Well that's my 2 cents hope it helped a little. Good luck to you and ask lots of questions here. It is what helped me through for sure!

Thanks, that is very helpful.  I have so much respect for the people on this forum, you have all been through the same types of things as I and yet you are all so positive and friendly.   Robyn

Expect life to begin!!!  I had surgery will Dr. P on a Tues 7am and got out Thurs at noonish.  Pain varies from person to person so just let them know if you are and they give ya stuff to take that away! And definately bring chapstick!!!(lifesaver for me!)  and bring what ever will make you comfy....the time flies when you are there..I thought. You are in good hands

One thing I found handy was having my own pillow there, because hospital pillows from my experience are never very comfy.  I also agree with Kris...bring some undergarments so you don't have to worry about flashing people all the time.  Oh, I also brought slippers since they will want you up and walking just as soon as you are able.  I agree with Sandie that time goes by really fast so things like books and stuff I never even got to.  I had problems getting my pain under control the first day or so and they ended up giving me a different pain med (Toradol) and that helped a lot, especially at night, but my family has also told me that I have a really low pain tolerance.   You are gonna be on the looser's bench with us in just 2 weeks...WoooHooo!