Pre-Op Shopping List

The last thing you want after surgery is to be overburdened with the daily tasks of life.

We've compiled a list a helpful items that can make your life so much easier.

• Loose clothing in dark colors that are easy on and off

• A cute and comfy robe. There are days, especially in the beginning, when dressing is a true labor and wearing a nice robe is all we want/can do

• Easy slip on slippers/shoes (we love shower shoes)

• Grabbing tool. You will not be able to bend over and grab things you drop or reach for things as you are accustomed to, a grabbing tool will save you lots of frustration and unnecessary pain

• Non-slip foot stool; depending on what surgery you have, standing up straight and reach for thing make prove to be very difficult. A simple foot stool can help tremendously. Bonus: can double as a seat in the shower if you are feeling lightheaded or worried about standing in the shower

• Plastic mattress cover. Makes sliding into and out of bed much easier and also protects your mattress from body fluids.

• XL puppy pads: will protect your bed/chair/etc. from body fluid as you drain. We also recommend standing on them when dressing/undressing, getting into/out of the shower, changing your pads, etc. while you are draining to eliminate having to clean up your floors.

• Maxi pads for heavy flow/overnight/etc. You will drain A LOT the first 48hrs

• Stool softener, laxatives, and or a fiber supplement. Extra important if you are taking pain medication as they cause constipation

• Mint or Ginger Tea to help with nausea

• Pedialyte, Liquid IV, etc. You will be drinking A LOT of water. Be sure to replace minerals and electrolytes that can be flushed out with increased water consumption

• Brain Game Puzzle Books, Crosswords, etc. to help keep you "busy" while you heal

• Audio books. Holding a book or finding a comfortable position to read in will prove to be a task so we love audio books...and its a nice break from TV.

• Throat lozenges. You may have a very sore throat or cough after surgery from your breathing tube

• Compression socks

We hope you find this list helpful!

We'll cover helpful supplements and diet in another post.