by Kipper » Mon Dec 07, 2009 6:02 am
Not sure if this applies to all hospital but Guys pump you full of fluid during the op to keep the new kidney hydrated, I got 10 litres which for those of you on PD is a full box of bags. Result was I gained 10KG immediately post op, first noticed my fingers looked like sausages, then my arms and legs, everything had swollen ( and I do mean everything! )
This meant that when I was well enough to be discharged none of my clothes fit, I couldn't even get my slippers on. my wife had to go out and buy tee shirts and joggers in 2 sizes too big and new PJ's too, the weight does come off slowly but it's weird to go for an op and wake up a fattie.
The other thing I would say and it's not a criticism, more an observation of our budget cut hospitals. Make sure that the nurses know what you need, be aware of what meds you are on and make sure you get them. The nurses were so busy that on a couple of occassions meds were missed and I had to remind them, take ownership of your condition. Also when they come to give you meds and they move that little table over your bed, make sure they move it back, I kept waiting for someone to come past so I could get my water as I could only reach what was within reach of my hands. Seemed strange to be told to drink lots of water and they had moved the bloody stuff!