Visiting after operation advice

[Shopgirl]

I've not had my pre med yet so unable to get hospital advice but need to book a hotel for my husband whilst I'm in hospital having my mitral valve repaired/replaced as we live 2 hrs away. If I'm lucky and first in theatre, will I be up to seeing a visitor later that day/evening. I'm sure everyone is different but it would be good to get an idea.

[Hidden]

Hi there - good question! We aim to get you off the ventilator as soon as it's safe, which for most people is a few hours after surgery. Bear in mind though you'll still be on a lot of drugs and recovering from anaesthetic and major surgery, so you won't be particularly alert. Visitors are usually allowed in intensive care on the day of surgery, but with the caveat that there will be a lot of tubes and equipment etc. and that can be quite upsetting for some people. Nobody looks 'well' straight after surgery!

Everyone is different, so it's a compromise between whether or not you feel you'd need to see your husband as soon as you're awake, and whether or not he'd prefer to be there or wait until the next day when you're looking a little better.

I hope this helps.

Take care,

Chris

[Shopgirl in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Chris, that will help me decide X

[Sina-6491]

Yes I saw my fella & my brother the same day. But to be honest, you're not really with it. Everything is a bit fuzzy & confusing.

I know some hospitals used to have a couple of rooms available for family. But I expect thay is a thing of the past, what with budgets etc.

Yes just warn your hubby, that you will probs be really sleepy.

Talk again when you've had your surgery, c ya, Jo

[Shopgirl in reply to Sina-6491]

Thanks Jo, X

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hello showgirl, firstly good luck with the op, let us know how it goes and your recovery. Under a general anaesthetic you'll be conscious in the evening but very groggy and sleepy. I have a very vague recollection of my wife visiting me but not very aware of even who I was!

[Nettyanne]

Hello shop girl, I was 1st in theatre for my mitral valve surgery and my husband and daughter waited all day to see me in icu as we live 30 miles away. I have no recollection of them being there but I think it is reassuring for close family to see you if they can cope with all the tubes and machines.

Best wishes