Back to work?

TeresaNnyc This is a common question, you will get many diferent answers. The long/short of it is no one knows, typical if lap is 2 -4 wk, open 3-5wk perhaps, but there are surgeons differences, indiidual response to a MAJOR TRAUMATIC SURGERY TO YOUR SYSTEM, so age, complications, other medical issues, pain all play a role as does what you do for a living, how you heal and tolerate food etc. I am sure your sugeon will give you a ballpark estimate that is typical to think about..... As always I ask people consider these things: Do not count on anything such as rtn to work in any length of time, consider making a guideline but that it may change, the more open you are to this the less challenging it may be if you don't reach that goal because although no one thinks it will be them or wants a complication they do and can happen. I know some people who only have 2 wk leave to use, I ask what if you need 3 wk because of a complication? Not to get tied up in whatifs, but this person really couldnt fathom that happening, or how she would pay her bills etc. My example/myself I had lap rny was a RN at the time working on a inpatient psych unit, needing to do restraints/seclusions etc my surgeon said typicaly expect 4 wk, if I had been a Nurse Practitioner at that time nd had a desk job as I do now he would of said 2 wk typically. The muscles needed to heal for my strenuous job or I'd risk wound dehiscense or a hernia. Well the long and short of my tory is I needed 8 weeks because at 4 wk when I was about to return I had a complication, adhesions formed (scar tissue) aroundmy smallk intestines at the Y connection causing a blockage, I needed emergent surgery to cut them, then because of the surgery andhealig I needed 4 more weeks. Did I want 8 wk off? No, but it happens. Some people are n the ICU moths due to an issue such as a leak and although no one expects this or wishes for it it can happen.  I am sure u are aware of this..... Consider this is bout you and not a race no matter how much you like your job..We get one honeymoon period, one opportunity to rst and heal. Man people are not even eating food at 2 wk out, how can you possibly know and larn how to eat slow down, chew well and what u will tolerte if u return to a work schedule? Fatigue or hibernation hits at 2-4 wk as well many need naps by mid day, can u take a nap>?I know I couldnt. Will u tolerate food, best to learn a few foods that are safe, how to ave a routine to get in all fluids so to avoid a ER trip for sever dehydration b being out as log as needed than have to go out of work etc. We get one chace, one opportunity to do all we can to make this tool work, I feel we are worth the time up front, learning this and not rushing and avoiding are needs are important. IMHO this is the best gift we give ourselves, work will be there always but we only get this one chance to experience the gift and learn and care for ourselves...take all the time u need, be in a rush only to start your new life that involves making you #1!!! Maybe that means 2 wk off, or maybe 4...I wish you well. just some points to ponder from my lesons and those I hear who rush to work only to get caught back into not eating due to lack of time, not drinking for the same reason and their hoenymoon rushes by and they missed the leson or opportunity to take care of themselves, they kick themselves 5, 6 12 or 24 mo later ecause they see then it all began long before the surgery. Hugs! (of soapboxx now)....

Jamie: Thanks for this post- I always find your posts very interesting and I always get alot of information that I need.  I am having surgery on Monday with Dr. Singh and am really feeling good about it all! I have worked so hard and am ready to take this journey, I am alittle nervous about the waiting all day to go to the hospital as I have to arrive at 2pm and I am his last patient. I plan to return to work at 2 weeks out- I repeat plan. I have a job that does not require lifting or alot of standing. I am a director in a cancer center- so alot of administrative work and alot of patient consults.  Have a great evening- thanks for sharing your words of wisdom- Hugs vicki

VICKI: Wishing you an uneventful surgery, speedy recovery and success! hugs... If you have any last minute ?????? email me okay! [email protected] U will soon be on the other side, maybe stay up late Sunday and TRY to sleep  in Monday! I know probably impossible to sleep due to all the emotions!