Medical Bracelet

Dr A gave me mine after my Barium Swallow, it is stainless steel, says Sleeve Gastrectomy on the front and on the back it says No Blind NGs, No NSAIDS, Dehydr. Risk.  I am allergic to a few medications so I was thinking about getting a nice necklace or charm bracelet made so I could take off the Sleeve Gastrectomy and add my allergies.  I have told very few people.

I had my 2 week post op visit on Monday and asked about it.  My doctor said I didn't need one!

I actually just ordered a medical bracelet.  I have several severe medicine allergies and needed to update those.  So, I figured that I would add the info on the sleeve.  I just put the procedure name (spelled out), NO Blind NG Tube and then I think I added Dr. Singh's name and number.  Figured if they didn't know what I was "talking about" they could call the doctor for more information! Deb

I have one from Medic Alert.  It is a bracelet that never comes off.  Mine says No PCN (i am allergic to penicillin), sleeve gastrectomy, and no blind placement of NG tube. There is an 800 number to the Medic Alert foundation where they have my additional information, such as NSAID's contraindicated and dehydration risk.  They also have my emergency contact information.  Paramedics and ER personnel are trained to look for these bracelets or necklaces.  The ER would probably look in your wallet for additional info but not the paramedics.  They won't take the time.  I want the actual bracelet (or necklace) because if I am out on my horse, or doing any other type of activity where I don't have my purse with me I want the medical personnel to know what is going on.  The most important is the NG tubes.  If they place it blindly there is the potential to perforate the stomach.  Not a good thing.  The dehydration is important too, but as someone else mentioned, an IV is a pretty automatic thing if you are injured. Laurie

Dr. Alvarez gives one to each of his patients before being discharged.  I figure if he thinks it's important enough to give us one, I should be willing to wear one to protect my body. I wore his for a few months but have since purchased a stainless steel bracelet which can be worn all the time (such as in water).  Mine says:        VSG - NO blind NG - Dehydration risk - Small stomach capacity Another reason I wear mine is my psychologist.  She is "the psychologist" for a local bariatric group and said she has never seen anyone else wear a medic alert bracelet.  She thinks it's a great idea, not only for our safety, but also as a constant VISUAL reminder we have a medical condition (obesity) for which we had surgery.  In other words, always a reminder that food has been our enemy in the past - a reminder to eat good food. Good luck on your journey. Barb D

I am getting one for by birthday later this month and very glad you posted this.  Now it will also serve as my reminder to eat good food. Thanks, Donna

I asked @ my pre-op appt today & my surgeon said if I wanted to get one, he's recommend putting "stomach narrow" on it.