What to Bring To The Hospital For Bariatric Surgery
Most surgical patients spend about 1-3 nights in the hospital or surgical center, depending on their type of surgery and the preference of the surgeon. Here are some patients’ top suggestions for what to bring for their stay:
Pillow- On the way home from the hospital, many patients like to place a pillow between the seat belt and their abdomen to reduce additional pain or tenderness when going over bumps, stopping quickly, etc.
Favorite protein shake- Many hospitals and surgical centers will provide patients with a protein drink to sip before going home. Unfortunately, the selection of brands and flavors is usually limited. Bring your surgeon/program-approved protein shake to drink in case you don’t like the options provided.
Gas-x- During laparoscopic surgery, the abdomen is inflated with gas to help the surgeons’ visibility. This can mean that after surgery, much of this gas will remain inside of you for a few days to a week. The gas will pass out of you naturally, but while it’s inside your abdomen it could cause some discomfort. Using a product like Gas-x chewable may help relieve some of the discomfort.
Listerine spray- Most patients won’t be eating or drinking for a while after surgery and they might feel like they have bad breath. Keeping a Listerine spray handy can help alleviate this concern easily instead of using breath mints or gum, which are often not allowed right after surgery.
Electronics Chargers- Many patients bring their tablets and phones with them to the hospital. Make sure that you bring corresponding chargers to ensure you have the power you need to communicate with others or entertain yourself.
Headphones- The hospital can be a noisy place, especially if you have to share a room with another patient. Headphones can be a nice way to block out the noise and listen to music or watch a movie on your devices.
Chapstick- Intubation, anesthesia, medications, or lack of fluid are all reasons that you might have chapped or dry lips after surgery. Make sure you bring some chapstick to help!
Comfortable clothes- Make sure to bring something loose and comfy for your ride home. Some patients even choose to bring their own pajamas or hospital gowns for their stay.
Face wipes- You may not be able to take a shower while you’re in the hospital so face wipes can be the next best thing.
Ear plugs- Patients often don’t get sound sleep while they’re in the hospital due to the many sounds or check-ins they get from the nursing staff. Bring some earplugs to help you get a little more sleep.
It’s good to note that most hospitals will provide you with a toothbrush and toothpaste, although you might want to bring your toiletries just in case. If you have had surgery, what other things did you find useful for your stay?
