Question:
Med Alert Tags??? This is the first I've heard about this...

Is this something that the Doctor goes over with you right before surgery? Had I not read that question on Med Alert Tags, how would I have known about them?    — Janet C. (posted on October 15, 2001)

October 15, 2001
i also just heard about the medic alert tage from this site. i was reading up on what to bring to the hospital and how to get yourself ready. it is abot $35 the first year and $20 each year after to join. what they do is keep a conplete record of you on file in case of an emergency. the hospital would notify them for all of your medical history. they know you by your five digit code. i intend on doing this in case i had to go to the hospital and this way they could help me without hurting my stomach. i think its a great idea.
   — LAURA G.

October 16, 2001
I too first saw this idea on the website. I then asked my surgeon if it is something that we should know about and something that I should follow through with. He said that it really is unnecessary as "most" of the time a person is conscious when admitted so can explain their history. And as for the other times, like in emergencies, he still doesn't think there is a problem. Many suggest the alert bracelet should say "don't place NG tube blindly". Basically what he told me is it is rare for a NG tube to be used in any kind of emergency, and even if it is...he doesn't think it would do any harm to a healed pouch. So....talk this over with your surgeon to get his viewpoint. Either way, I guess it can't hurt you!
   — Tracy L.