Got my operation date. Any essentials I should take to hospital?

[babalon]

I have finally got my long awaited date for my lumbar disc replacement. 17th Feb! I've never been an inpatient before can you that have offer me tips in what I should take with me? I'm going to be in about 5 days I think. I will have a stomach wound and my bowel may well go on strike for a few days.

Also if anyone knows anyone who has had a disc replacement I would love to talk to them.

Trying not to worry about the 3 kids but I'm really scared now

Food & drinks
Magazines & books
Handheld games console
Mobile phone pref with internet (patientline is truly rubbish)
Dressing gown, flip flops, towels
Wash bag etc
Ear plugs

Do NOT take a fancy mobile with internet on it. Someone might well steal it while you are in the operating theatre.

Take a nasty old one instead that you do not mind losing.

food and drinks.... deffo.

Hospital food is shite. When i was in for 48hrs my dad made me macaroni cheese and brought it up to the hospital still warm - was the best thing i had eaten.

You may even want to take bottled water.... hospital water always tastes funny to me!

Otherwise, just things to keep you occupied.... newspapers, magazines, puzzle books, DS lite!

oh and if you are a clean freak like me a pack of anti-bac wipes (for the toilet/table etc)

you can get the nurses to lock your phone away while you are in theatre

Thanks for quick replies,
Already have by alco gel and wipes. Hadn't thought of ear plugs but they sound essential.

Do you think I could take my own pillow? I have a memory foam one or will it go walkies?

oh god, yes, own pillow!

Don't take anything of value except money for phone card or change for payphone - if you need anything get others to buy it for you or bring your mobile and stuff in after your surgery so it's not hanging around. Sometimes you don't end up in the bed you started in before your surgery so it's better to be safe and leave any jewellery and stuff at home.

A bottle of squash - believe me if they give you any soluble medicine drinks (pottasium etc) you'll be glad of it! Fruit possibly sweets. Some hospital food is ok - I especially like the puddings so always request one even if you don't think you'll fancy it.

Again with pillow - get someone to bring it in after surgery as you might be moved around on beds by different nurses who might not realise it's yours. Infact might be an idea to only take the essentials with you and get someone to bring the rest in after surgery as there often isn't much room.

If you're likely to have a catheter after the surgery take nighties not pyjamas (I've made that mistake).

Hope this helps.

Oh and with a stomach wound I'd prepare to wear something really light that doesn't pull on your stomach home.