Question:
Dumb question...

I'm just curious, is there any amount of time you have to wait to take shower after surgery? I'm scheduled for June 10th and am trying figure out what personal items I should pack for the hospital.    — marcia5000 (posted on May 17, 2009)

May 17, 2009
This is not a dumb question. I had my surgery this past Monday and they had me in the shower on Tuesday before I left for home that afternoon. Your incisions will be covered with amazing waterproof bandages, so you can let the water run right over them. It doesn't hurt. The hospital provided body/hair wash and tooth paste. All I took was my toothbrush and deoderant and a change of clothes. Definitely take houseslippers or socks with non-skid bottoms. They will have you up walking the same day as your sugery and you don't want to slip. Good luck!
   — KJohnson0722

May 17, 2009
I agree with the previous poster - not a dumb question. I didn't shower until I was home for a day - I only got the waterproof bandage on the port scar. My hospital also did not really encourage a shower, but I dont' feel the nurse care was the best where I was. I would recommend some kind of lip stuff - I had the Burts Bees Pomegranate, and it really helped, because your lips get super-dry post op.
   — stellarsan

May 17, 2009
I thought of a couple of things after I posted - take a very loose-fitting dress and shoes that are easy to put on for when you go home. Also, if they don't give you one, ask for a toilet paper extender - it's a life saver when you want to be left alone and want some private dignity. I also brought my blackberry to stay in touch wiht friends & fam, and that was my lifeline.
   — stellarsan

May 17, 2009
Sandra, what is a toilet paper extender? Thanks.
   — Janell C.

May 17, 2009
There are NO dumb questions :o) I didn't shower at the hospital, no need to. I showered the 2nd night I was home. They said you could shower when you wanted, just take off your bandages (I had LAP rny, so if you had open, check with your dr) and replace after showering. I used the rest of the antibacterial soap they gave me to shower prior to surgery. Seemed like a smart thing to do. It felt so good to get fresh!
   — opheliafl

May 18, 2009
Sandra, I would also like to know, what is a toilet extender?
   — marcia5000