Question:
What do you guys think about rehab hospital for post op care?
After a lengthy conference with my hubby and internist.. she has decided that I need to go to a rehab hospital for my first few weeks after surgery.. I am not sure of just how long she plans for me to be in this hospital..From what I have read here on the site.. I was under the impression that I would be able to go home after surgery and manage my own care.. She wants me in a sterile environment because I have a compromised immune system, easily catch anything exposed to, and wants me to have rest.. My son and hubby are both very dependent on me for caregiving.. and most likely would not be able to be caregivers.. and my doctor is aware of this.. She thinks for me to recuperate without major infection.. I need a sterile environment, few visitors if any, no flowers, only cards and phone calls from friends as I am having my surgery just before Christmas and right in the middle of flu season.. Do you guys think she is being too careful .. or should I go along with her decision? My insurance would cover this if documented as medically necessary and I completely trust my internist.. Thanks.. Hugs, — Gina Landers (posted on October 7, 2000)
October 7, 2000
Hi Gina, I haven't had surgery yet, but my thoughts are this: Is there
anyone such as family, close friends or neigbors who can help your husband
out during your time in the rehab center? It sounds like your doctor is
really trying to keep you from getting any kind of secondary infection and
maybe this is a good idea. Will your insurance cover a second opionion?
That would be one idea. Honestly, I think because this is such major
surgery it is probably a good idea to take some time to really rest and
recuperate. Maybe letting someone take care of YOU would be a nice change!
I know this must be a very hard decision for you and I wish you all the
best in your surgery!
— Laura B.
October 7, 2000
I would definately go along with what your doctor recommends. There is no
such thing as being to careful, if you have a compromised immune system.
Your family will have to fend for themselves for a little while. But they
may appreciate you all the more once you get home.
— [Anonymous]
October 7, 2000
WOW, I think what your doctor is doing is WONDEFUL! From what you said you
do catch things easy. A way to look at it, that if you do get and infection
they can treat it fast! Please go along with what she has said to do! Plus
another thing if you would have problems with the surgery they would be
there to treat you fast, and you will not have to worrie about what food to
eat or drink it will be all ready for you... Good luck to you... I wish you
well..
Kristin
— Kristin H.
October 8, 2000
I went home to my own home alone when I left the hospital three days after
surgery. While I was on pain meds my mother came over while I shower and
helped me change my dressing and put on my binder. I immediately began
preparing my own food, washing my own dishes and doing my own laundry. You
need to rest and take things slowly. You need to avoid lifting. You need to
keep the surgical site clean and disinfected. These things can be done at
home.
You indicate that you have a compromised immune system. This may be the
focus of your physician's concern and you may need to explore that further
with her. Also, if you are a caretaker for a family member who is disabled
that is a consideration. Being realistic about your capabilites is very
important. If you have had a previous surgery this may help you determine
if a re-hab hospital is your best choice. For me, being home and having my
privacy were very compelling.
— Nanette T.
October 8, 2000
I am 6 months post-op and I was in the hospital for 4 days after my
surgery, when I can home I still had pneumonia and was not supposed to be
released. My repsirtory doctor call after I got home that day and was
upset that they had allowed me to leave. He allowed me to stay home but
the first week I had a severe reaction to my medication and could hardly
get up on my feet. The first 2 weeks were very difficult. I had a family
that was able to be with me 24/7 and I really did need care and someone
with me. I had a very difficult first 2 weeks. For those who are
fortunate enough to be healthy going into surgery and can take care of
themselves and be up and out the first two week that is wonderful. But not
all of us are that lucky. You should listen to your doctor and WL surgeon
as to what you need to do. Plus it would be hard for you to be home and
feel the need to try and take care of your husband and son. We all know
that we feel a responsiblity to those we love and will put them before our
on needs. Plus your having surgery at Christmas time which is another
whole area. Best of luck.
— ann A.
October 28, 2000
Sweetheart, you have to hope for the best and be prepared for the worst. If
your doctor want you to go into this enviroment, it may be a good idea. If
you do better than expected, you can check yourself out early. I have
always been blessed with half way decent health even after weighing 532
pounds pre-op. I'm now 12 days post op and stayed 10 days in the hospital.
It was no peice of cake. Luckly, my mom is helping me out a lot since I got
home. If you are expected to be caregiver after you return home, you are
setting yourself up for difficult times. You need help now in your life and
you deserve that help. You don't need to be a superwoman after your
surgery. During this time, you have got to think of yourself as #1 in your
life.
— Jan M.
October 28, 2000
Oh my. It sounds to me like you need a nice rest anyway. I'd certainly do
what your doctor suggests ... and enjoy every minute of it and don't feel
guilty. This is a major operation and you're doing this for your health.
If you don't have your health you won't be able to take care of anyone ...
even yourself. I wish you the very best of luck and hope everything goes
well. I hope your son and husband realize how much you do for them and
hope they learn how to take care of themselves.
— [Anonymous]
October 28, 2000
I would much rather be in the comfort of my own home! If I had a
compromised immune system, I definately would not want to be in a rehab
hospital!! You should see the germs running around that place! Go Home and
Relax unless there is some unspoken problems with hubby and son not really
helping out!
— [Anonymous]
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