My Top 3 Essentials for a Post-surgery Hospitalization
Hospitalizations can be difficult, especially if it’s your first time staying overnight. It’s uncomfortable not to be in your own bed, and the food usually isn’t the greatest, especially if your doctor has recommended a particular diet, such as low sodium or low carb.
When I had transsphenoidal surgery to remove a pituitary tumor in 2015, I was hospitalized for three nights and four days, which is pretty standard. At the hospital, I didn’t have access to many of the things I enjoy at home. Following is my list of essentials for a post-surgery hospitalization.
First, it’s imperative to have a trusted friend or family member with you. For me, that was my wife, but I understand that not everyone is married or has a significant other.
Upon waking from surgery, you may not have all your mental faculties due to the effects of anesthesia. For this reason, you will need someone who can speak on your behalf. This includes talking with medical staff, handling any visitors, advocating for you, and watching over you. Hospital staff are often overworked and can have a hard time handling all requests from patients and visitors.
My wife, a medical professional, recommends that a loved one stay with the patient post-surgery to provide care. She says it’s important for the patient not to feel ashamed about asking for help and needing assistance with personal hygiene and cleaning. This is often overlooked, but vital to the patient’s recovery.
After my surgery, there was another patient in the hospital who didn’t receive any visitors. I will never forget them crying out for their family. It made me realize the importance of having a loved one with you during this difficult time.
Second, I recommend bringing clean clothing, toothpaste, lotion, perfume, and other personal care items. Wearing a hospital gown for your entire stay doesn’t feel good mentally or physically. Changing into my own comfortable clothes helped me look better and feel better.
The third essential is some form of entertainment. Yes, most rooms have a television, but streaming devices enable you to binge-watch your favorite shows. This could be a laptop, tablet, or device that plugs into the TV. You’ll want to avoid stressful activities, so for those of you who are workaholics, forget about it! Sit back, relax, and heal.
These are just a few of my post-surgery must-haves. Keep in mind that hospitals may have protocols in place regarding who can visit and what you can bring, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please follow the rules to keep yourself and others safe.
What items would you add? Please share in the comments.
Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.
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