Question:
I live alone and plan to have my dtr stay with me post op. I am thinking that if all

goes well I will need her mainly at night and to stand by when I shower. Am I under estimating my needs?    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 10, 2000)

August 10, 2000
I think alot has to do with the type surgery you are having and if you have any complications. I had open rny and the first few days I did well in the hospital did not think I would need alot of help at home. But the first week home I had a reaction to some of the medicine and was swollen all over, could hardly walk by myself. The second week I could shower it was almost to much I was in a lot of pain and so sore. My husband bought a stool at the drugstore for me to sit on in the shower this help alot. I could at least sit and bath and wash my hair. By the third week I was ok. You will need some help getting in and out of bed and up and down. The one thing I wish I had done was either rent a hospital bed or buy a recliner. This would have help from having someone help me up and down. I have a high bed but still needed assistance. This is just my opinion. You might be able to make it alone during the day. If you shower before or after your daughter goes to work. Best of luck in you upcoming surgery.
   — ann A.

August 10, 2000
Hi There, No, sounds to me like you know your needs better than anyone else would, good luck, and follow all of your instructions exactly. Linda
   — Linda H.

August 10, 2000
Following a laparascopic procedure, your plan should work fine. If you're planning an open procedure, you might find that you need slightly more assistance, especially during the first week home. Follow your surgeon's instructions, and don't overdo. Lap or open, this is still a major surgery with general anesthesia, and it will take weeks for your system to get back on track. How you care for yourself in the first weeks will definitely impact how you feel months from now. Good luck!
   — Diana T.