Tips for hospital overnight stay

[riddo11]

Hi everyone, I'm having my second lap soon. I have stage 4 including on my bowel and will have a bowel surgeon and gynae surgeon operating on me. They have said I will need "at least 2-3 nights in hospital, maybe even up to 5 or 6".

For my first lap I stayed one night so have a little idea of what to take but any tips in general or surrounding what to bring would be helpful. So far I'm thinking book, charger, eye mask, slippers, dressing gown....

Thanks everyone

[Tillyfloss]

hi. Hope you're having a comfortable day. I had 8 night stay and magazines, an adult colouring book, downloaded some things to watch on the iPad, and tried to organise visitors so I saw someone each day and it gave my hubby a break from coming every day. I also took peppermint tea and some snack type things as food aggregates my endometriosis so I took things I could eat. Make the most of resting whilst you can. Xx

[AllthatGlitters]

Hello

I would say magazines, some music, toiletries that you like, underwear, spare set of pjs, chewy sweets (i always crave them when I have been vomiting lol), sanitary wear, clothing for going home in.

Good luck x

[Chezzerl]

Hi

I had same surgery 18months ago and spent 5 nights in hospital so they can monitor for infection , glad I was there to be kept an eye on.

I found headphones useful to block out noise , peppermint tea , squash to make a change from water , spare nightie - one that buttons on the front is a good plan to make it easier for nurses/ docs to check wounds and retain your dignity xx good book and magazines , notepad and pen , light snacks for once your allowed to eat again xx sure I will think of something else but relax , rest and do as they advise and will be all good xx best of luck my lovely 😊👍

[BeTheSunshine]

Hi! I’ve got the same op coming up and was wondering the same! So thanks for asking this and thanks to those that have replied. Have you been given any advice or guidance on what to eat following surgery? Just wondering if high/low fibre is better after bowel surgery? Thanks

[riddo11 in reply to BeTheSunshine]

I think they will advise you when you are in. I was told I might be allowed a cup of tea, jelly and yoghurt the same day if it goes well! But they will obviously take care of that x

[Thecraftyadder]

Ear plugs to help you sleep, lip balm and dry shampoo as you probably won't manage to wash your hair.

[EOAK70]

Eye mask, ear plugs, long phone charging cord, your own pillow in a bright coloured pillow case.

[EndoZee]

Hey

Everything the ladies said below, but I forgot to take a washcloth, bodywash and a towel for the first 2 days, as you can't get up to go to the bathroom and you'll have to wash in the bed.

All the best, it will be a tough few days after the surgery but it will be worth it.

xxx