Question:
what to take to the hospital with me 4 surgery ???

   — kristie T. (posted on February 3, 2005)

February 2, 2005
Are you having Lap or Open? Take LITTLE if you are having Lap. You will sleep a lot and rest. Maybe a book, your own nightie, a robe, slippers, chap stick, a phone card, personal effects. If having OPEN take an OLD wooden spoon to use in the bathroom. Its very hard to bend over an open incision and wrapping the TP around the spoon extends that arm just long enough. LOL My sister and I were roommates and we probably spoke all of 3 times the entire time we were there. Like I said, other than when you are walking and such you sleep a lot.
   — FaithMills

February 2, 2005
I also took a couple of puzzle books (crosswords, find-a-word), something to write with and a scratch pad. I found I would have questions when the doctors weren't there and would forget to ask them when they were there. It's nice to have something to write on and write with so you can scribble your questions. I'd add to take a cell-phone if you have one, something to hold your hair up (like a scrunchie) if you have long hair, a pillow from home (hospital pillows are terrible) also, I would take a typed out list of ALL medications you are taking and those you are allergic to. I don't know how many times I had to repeat that information. Good luck!
   — Shayna T.

February 3, 2005
I started a list prior to my surgery and posted it on my profile. I found, though, that my list was too extensive. The only things that I REALLY needed were: lip balm (my favorite is Mary Kay), soft socks, house shoes, lotion, huggies wipes (they're thicker than most), a scarf for my head, a comfy gown, robe and my parents. I had open RNY. I slept a great amount of time but I had to get up and walk in the hall and sit in the chair.
   — lfisher

February 4, 2005
We have a list that the Director of Bariatrics at the hospital gave us. We got this in our pre-op classes: Personal Items - robe slippers, bath items Personal fan - (this is really helpful for your comfort) Toilet tongs - This is to wipe. It is somsites difficult when it is hard to bend, use these to wrap TP on. Wet wipes
   — jk_harris

February 4, 2005
absolutely need chapstick. the drugs give you very dry mouth and lips. also if you plan to make any long distance calls, a phone card... some hospitals dont allow cell phone use. patsy in las vegas
   — PATSY N.

February 4, 2005
A backscratcher. I have never been so itchy in my life due to dry skin.
   — coffenut

February 6, 2005
I took my pillow from home and I am so glad I did!!! They smell was comforting and the bed was very uncomfortable!!! So that helped me get comfortable....Christine
   — Christine W.

February 7, 2005
Big baggy pair of pants, so when you get to leave the hospital you can go home comfortably!!!! Also your own tooth brush (theirs is not very good very flimmsy). Also if you like to read take some books and magazines. Some puzzle books.It helps pass the time.
   — mystic0619