Anterior resection of colon what to pack

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After my shock diagnosis and unclear margins, I am due for this very soon, hopefully laparoscopically.

They haven’t given me a packing list.
I’ve packed and repacked about 5 times now and am still unsure what to take.
I’ll be 3 days in HDU for other health reasons, then hopefully one or two nights in a private room on the wards.

Please give me your best suggestions for what to pack and what I actually need.
I am planning on leaving an extra bag for DH to bring in to change clean/dirty when he visits, rather than taking in enough for 5 days.

My mum had bowel surgery and was up and about quite quickly. She just took nighties for sleeping and elasticated waist loose legged trousers and T-shirts / cardigans for wearing during the day. Is there something you are wondering about in particular? Hope all goes well.

Unfortunately have lots of experience with bowel surgery due to dh.

Without meaning to sound negative, you may end up with ileus, so may well end up nil by mouth, dh found Boots mouth hydrating spray excellent for this.

Honestly, the hospital will give you everything you need. Take a robe and basic toiletries. A phone charger with a long lead. I was told to take slip on slippers. Fresh fruit is very lacking in hospitals despite being great for constipation.

Bowel Cancer uk has a great forum where you can communicate with others who have been through similar. PM me if you like.

Lots of stretchy pants..loose night dresses/shirts and a few elasticated pj bottoms and loose t shirts.
Socks. Slippers.
Baby wipes.
Face wipes
Talc
Lip salve
A solid perfume stick (had to put this under my nose at meal times when I couldn't eat and the smell of meals made me queasy)
Peppermint teabags (trapped wind)
Body lotion (your feet and hands get so dry)
Full power bank, cable, usb plug
Book

Good luck lovely xxx

If you like pyjamas, get some a couple of sizes too big. Everything swells up after surgery, so even trousers that are normally roomy might be too small. Charger bank as you probably won't be able to reach a charger on the wall. To be swapped with a recharged one daily by your dh. Audio book if you have your own room.

I'm a few weeks post-surgery, and here's what I'd suggest....

• nighties for as long as you have a catheter in - so much easier to manage

• once the catheter is out, loose pyjama pants

• button-up pyjama tops with short sleeves or loose sleeves - buttons make it easier for dressing changes, sleeves made blood tests and IVs easier to get/manage

• slip on slippers - no faffing getting into and out of bed

• dry shampoo - I had to do frequent walks after surgery. Helped me look some way okay given I couldn't shower.

• Chewing gum. It helps get your gut back working, but I found some flavours more palatable than others.

• I wasn't allowed any fruit or veg until I was at home after surgery, so wouldn't bring anything like that.

• large wet wipes - great for cleaning yourself easily

• something with some movies/series downloaded on to it