Hi Amber, I'm misty and I am an RN. I am having the sleeve done in two weeks. I have never been personally intubated but let me ease your mind. The reason they are telling you about it before hand is so you dont freak out. People are generally freaked out by it because they wake up to it without any before hand warning. An example would be a car wreck where you have no recollection and come to with a tube down your throat. Now that you can expect it when you wake up it wont be so alarming.
I hope that you don't mind if I introduce myself here, as well as ask an pre-operative question.
My name is Amber, I am 21 years old, and I am having sleeve gastrectomy on Monday morning.
I started my journey on August 1st. I went to a seminar that a semi-local surgeon was hosting and decided that I was interested. I also went to his support group that same day, just to see what others had to say. I also met with the surgeon that day, one on one. He told me that I was a very good candidate for the sleeve, and that he thought I would be very successful, that was encouraging.
I submitted to insurance on October 1st, was called with the insurance approval on October 5th, and at that time, was told that my surgery would be on October 11th. I was shocked. I hate to admit it, and am a little embarrassed, but I did burst into tears after I got off the phone. It all seemed so sudden, I though I would get the approval, and be scheduled for sometime around Thanksgiving, or even Christmas. Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful that my process was quick, because I know of people who have waited months and even years for their approvals, and I know that must be awful, I was just ...shocked.
I am so fortunate to be given the opportunity to receive this surgery, I know it will have a huge impact on my life, and I am still at the age, where I can change my eating habits and lifestyle, with somewhat of an ease.
I hope that I will get to know you all and be of some support to you all, I don't have much advice to give as of now, as I have not been sleeved yet, but in the future, I hope to be able to help in any way I can.
My question is about extubation. I met with the anesthesiologist yesterday. He explained to me that I would be awake when the breathing tube was removed.
I'm so freaked out now. I explained to him that I've watched episodes of ER and Grey's Anatomy where someone wakes up with a tube in them, and freaks out. He honestly didn't seem to follow...and replied with something to the effect of, oh, you'll be fine.
Well, as of now, on the subject of this whole extubation thing, I am NOT fine. It worries me, honestly it does. I know that if I am awake, and there is a tube coming out of my mouth, that no doubt, I will freak out. Can anyone tell me their experience with extubation? Is it not really a big deal?
I would appreciate any input, and I look forward to more contact with all of you.
Many thanks.
Amber
