Non-friend or family member attendant following surgery?

[ardelia 41]

This is kind of an odd question, but I fear that I have found myself in the unfortunate position of not having someone to drive me home following surgery or to watch me to make sure nothing weird happens. My friend was supposed to do it, but a severe falling out now excludes this as a possibility.

The question is: would a private duty nurse be permitted to bring me home after surgery and stay with me the first day or so after or must it be someone who is my family/friend?

I really don't have anyone else to help with this because my circle of friends has significantly diminished since I have packed on so much weight. Actually, the circle is non-existent. (If you refuse every single request to go out with friends, eventually they stop asking.) No, there is no family member to help - both parents are dead.

Please don't think I am here for a pity party. This question is quite serious and I am hoping that someone here can help.

[cynpatt 2]

I think that that would be fine - when is your surgery? I would discuss it with your surgeon - I bet there there would be someone from your doctors office who would be happy to be there with you. This surgery is going to change your life - congrats on your decision!

[ardelia 41]

I think that that would be fine - when is your surgery? I would discuss it with your surgeon - I bet there there would be someone from your doctors office who would be happy to be there with you. This surgery is going to change your life - congrats on your decision!

I haven't scheduled surgery yet...but I am a (compulsive) planner and I like to be prepared.

I certainly am hoping that my life will change after surgery. Many around here (lapbandtalk.com, I mean) seem to have great success after their surgeries.

[shelley1057 0]

Let your surgeon know this. You will most likely be kept overnight and then most hospitals have arrangements such as taxi service or vans that take pts. home after a stay.

[adagray 1]

It should be OK. I would check w/your surgeon to see if they can refer you to someone who provides this as a service. I noticed when I went for my pre-op testing at the hospital that there was a car outside advertising 'rent-a-nurse' or something like that. Basically, it said it was a service to take you to the hospital, wait for you, take you home, get you situated back at home, etc. I remember thinking that was pretty cool. I'm sure there is a great need for this. Just think of the elderly who may not have family closeby. And, there are so many procedures that require you have someone to accompany you home. So, I'm sure you will not be the first person who asks your surgeon about this. And, if you are having insurance pay for the surgery, then you will probably be required to spend the first night at the hospital.

[suebydoo70 0]

Another option you could try is going to one of the nutritional support meetings that your hospital/doctor holds and meet people there. Number one, you will be among a sea of people who were/are in your situation and can relate. Number two, I find that co-banders are very compassionate and helpful when there is someone in need. Best of luck to you.