Question:
Three days post op...staples and bathing

My nurse said NOT to get staples wet. My doctor's office said that I could bathe...but their instructions were for steri-strips, not staples. What has anyone done in this instance? I would LOVE a shower. Thanks.    — Lisa S. (posted on December 8, 2007)

December 8, 2007
I HAD RNY 11/9 AND BEFORE I LEFT THE HOSPITAL 11/10 THE NURSE TRIED TO GET ME TO TAKE A SHOWER BUT I DIDN'T WANT TO USE THE HOSPITALS SHOWER SO I WAITED AND SHOWERED AT HOME. I WAS TOLD YOU CAN SHOWER AND USE ANTIBACERIAL SOAP ON YOUR WOUNDS, BUT DO NOT TAKE A BATH OR USE BUBBLE BATH FOR AT LEAST A WEEK. I HAD STAPLES ALSO AND GOT THEM OUT AT MY FIRST WEEK CHECKUP. GOD BLESS, DEBI
   — DEBI R.

December 8, 2007
Debbi is rigjt on. Hit the showerlady, it is A-OK. Pat
   — pjennjr

December 8, 2007
Hi Lisa, congratulations on your surgery!! I'm at the end of my 2nd week from lap rny (11/26) and I was able to take showers with no problem. I was a little paranoid at getting the incisions wet but they put this clear tape over the ones that had staples so they didn't get wet. The drain incision was the one that worried me since there were no staples in it but it was never a problem. I just had to put the bandages back on the drain incision when I got out of the shower. Just remember to use antibacterial soap like Dial. Enjoy your shower!!
   — itzmetami

December 8, 2007
you go for that shower gurl!!and enjoy!! i too like tammy had surgery 11/26 and am doing great. i am healed on the outside, and me too like tammy, my drain area was fine. i was told no baths for at least a mo. i guess every doc is different in their wayz. good luck to you. here if you need us. kim crain
   — kimcrain

December 8, 2007
it is ok to shower and after all you need to keep those incision sites clean. use a mild soap and just don't take a bath yet. i was able to shower from the get go, but couldn't bathe for about 3 1/2 weeks. hope this helps...Holly
   — RNlvnCARSON