Home Care after Mastectomy.
Hello,
I live on my own and will be having a Mastectomy. one week before my daughter's first baby is due and therefore unable to ask her to help me at home.
Everything I have read says that I can...
Forum Discussion
Hello Nay
I am a bit late reading your post and the other ladies have probably answered all your questions but this may help.
Before leaving hospital the 'Discharge Planner' will speak with you re where you live, who with etc. He/she will be able to arrange the home help from the local council/shire to do the basic chores if you are unable to do things yourself. He/she will also be able to arrange for the district nurse to come and assist you with the drains if you go home with them in place as I did. Whilst this is not necessary it would certainly set your mind at rest to know they will check the wound and the amount in the bag. The cost of home help and district nursing is minimal.
If you feel things are not being done for you please ask to see the Breast Care Nurse and/or Social Worker BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOSPITAL and they can assist with same.
As Robyn says, if you place things at a decent height you will be OK. (Robyn was my source of info when I needed it - thank you Robyn). I had three surgeries due to problems and spent 7 nights in hospital, coming home with the drainage bag for a further 5 days but I found the worst problem was getting up to do something and forgetting to take my bag with me - it reminded me, though !
If you feel you may be at risk or too isolated please contact a local church or other group and see if they have a visiting service who can check up on you. If you have complications the Breast Care Nurse would certainly be able to assist with that as well.
Hope all goes OK for you - keep in touch.
Summer :-)