Question:
pre-op/post- op preparations

hi, i finally have a date of Dec.7, i need info on pre-op preparations, and items i should have ready when i get home from the hospital.... god bless, viola canton    — viola C. (posted on November 18, 2000)

November 18, 2000
I would recommend that before you go in for surgery you go to the grocery store and purchase sugar-free jello, sugar-free pudding, cream and boullion soups, sugar-free popsicles(sp?), cream of wheat cerial. Make sure you have some comfortable pajamas and/or clothes to wear around the house. For the first few days you are home you may want some movies to watch...because you can't do much of anything except rest. I am sure others will have some things that really helped...
   — twenc

November 19, 2000
I know this sounds crazy but, make sure your bed is comfortable when you return home. Or have a comfortable place to rest. The first night I was home, I could not lay flat because it pulled my staples. My mom helped me to get my bed comfortable with extra pillows in order to sleep with my head slightly raised. What a big help. Also, get your protein powder ahead of time. And have someone on hand to pick up your prescriptions from the drug store afterwards. I know this sounds crazy also, but if you share your bathroom with anyone, clean out your bathtub/shower before you go to the hospital. I have a spray bottle with a lysol mixture to cut down on germs. The last thing you need is an infection on your suture site. It won't stop an infection but it may cut down on the possibility.
   — Jan M.

November 20, 2000
Later I will e-mail you my list of tips! Good luck!
   — Paula G.