Forum Discussion
Next question - on waking
Hi again - still gathering info before my DMX (@kmakm - this might help you too!) and my next question is - what were you wrapped in when you woke up from surgery? I know each surgeon has their own technique so I need to ask mine this question, but I'm keen to hear others' experiences to find out what the possibilities are.
Will I be in bandages? or a support bra? Is there one drain on each side or more than one? Do they normally give you a urinary catheter? I'm having vertical incisions and my nipples are going too, but will be having skin sparing and straight into air expanders. If I end up having an axillary clearance on either side, will that have consequences for how they bandage me up?
So grateful for everyone's help during this dash through the unknown!
Will I be in bandages? or a support bra? Is there one drain on each side or more than one? Do they normally give you a urinary catheter? I'm having vertical incisions and my nipples are going too, but will be having skin sparing and straight into air expanders. If I end up having an axillary clearance on either side, will that have consequences for how they bandage me up?
So grateful for everyone's help during this dash through the unknown!
100 Replies
- @Romla That is the best chai available at the supermarkets imho! Have you tried the dirty chai in the Arkadia range? Has some coffee added. My husband loves it. My favourite chai is the one you get on the Indian trains... though that is possibly more about the atmosphere! Any desire to go back one day? K xox
- The sheepskin was a godsend - so comfortable! And no issues at all at the hospital. In fact, the older nurses were getting all nostalgic and remembering the days when they were routinely used! It’s also very handy when you get home...you’ll be having lots of naps and the sheepskin helps.
A V shaped pillow (got mine from KMart) is also great to rest on. I also took that to the hospital. Again no worries with it x - @kmakm I travelled a lot in India before “marriage , mortgage and kids “ and was a big fan of Chai tea. My kids are now fans too. On the weekly shopping is Arkadia Chai Tea Spice stocked by all the supermarkets - is powdered including milk so only needs hot water - apologies if you know it. Nice hot drink if you haven’t tried it.
- Thanks for that @AllyJay. I have the front opening bit sorted. Might take some teabags & trail mix, noted!
- @kmakm yes I am - I’ll go look x
- Thanks for that advice @Zoffiel - great idea!
- @Eastmum I've bought one. @nikkid put me onto this mob:
https://store.independenceaustralia.com/medical-supplies-equipment/pressure-care.html
Because you are immobile in bed at odd angles for a long time they can help ease the pain in your behind and lower back. It's medical grade and brand new so shouldn't be any hygiene issues!
Are you a member of the Choosing Breast Reconstruction group? Lots of info there! - @Eastmum Some hospitals discourage sheepskins or patients bring their own pillows. Hygiene issues, apparently. Also a problem if expensive personal items get bundled up with the laundry when someone strips your bed.
The sheepskins help stop pressure sores (which shouldn't be a problem for you) and are a lot more comfortable than laying on a sheet covering a plastic mattress.which makes you sweat. Awful.
If you are only in for a couple of days, beg for an extra blanket and get someone to fold it in half and put it under your bottom sheet, it makes life more comfortable. I do that anyway because the plastic creeps me out. Anything that works. - @kmakm,My must haves were decent tea, ditto coffee and my own cup. Also (surprise surprise) a bunch of knitting and my well loaded kindle. Trying to hold a book open was a bother, and I found the kindle so much easier. Button up the front sleepwear as putting arms above the head with drains, drips and whatnot is also a bit of a mission. Nibbles for the midnight hours when ward noise keeps you awake, for me salt and vinegar chippies and boiled sweets.
- Hi @nikkid - a few people have mentioned the sheepskin. Why is it good to use? Do you put it under your back? Where do you get one from? thanks!
