Re: Advice, Hints and Suggested To-Do's

[Guest guest]

>

> Advice, Hints and Suggested " To-Do's "

> From Those Who've BEEN THERE

>

> This is a list of advice I have received through numerous

listserves,

> emails, and online support groups regarding pre-operative and

> post-operative CI planning. This list is by no means exhaustive,

nor

> does it negate the importance of individuals checking with the

doctors

> about specifics they are concerned about in regards to their own

> medical history.

>

> My thanks to all who participated by sending me ideas and advice. I

> wish I could give credit to everyone, but I literally received 100's

> of individual pieces of information. Feel free to share this list

> with others, and hopefully all seeking information about CI surgery

> will find this list useful.

>

> Pre-operative

>

> 1. Purchase things like triple-antibiotic ointment, hydrogen

> peroxide, cotton balls, q-tips, over the counter pain relievers,

> shower caps, gauze, Vitamin E capsules,and special shampoos (see

> post-operative below – some could use baby shampoo right away, while

> others had to purchase " no rinse " shampoos for a week's use) PRIOR

to

> surgery. Discuss the use of each with doctors and nurses. The

> important thing is to purchase these prior to your surgery date so

> that all is ready for use when you get home. If you know you will

> have pain medication prescriptions and antibiotics, get them filled

> before surgery so that you don't have to worry about getting them

> after you get home.

>

> 2. Clean your house before you leave to go to the hospital! Wash

all

> of your dirty clothes, etc. No one wants to come home from even

> outpatient surgery to a dirty, messy house. Make sure you wash your

> bedding so that you have clean sheets to snooze on at night! Find

> towels to place over pillows so that ointment will not stain

> pillowcases.

>

> 3. Purchase extra pillows if you think you will need them, in order

> to prop yourself up better at night. Some CI patients borrowed a

> recliner in advance if they did not own one. This enabled them to

> sleep comfortably in a reclined position after surgery for a couple

of

> weeks.

>

> 4. Purchase healthy microwave meals, or freeze a week's worth of

> meals in advance. This will enable you to quickly re-heat food so

> that you do not have to prepare and cook meals immediately following

> your surgery. Put them in cheap microwaveable plastic containers so

> that you can throw them away and not have to wash dishes. Purchase

> fresh fruit the day before your surgery so that you have healthy

> snacks readily available. Wash them ahead of time so that you need

> only retrieve a piece from the fridge. Stock up on applesauce,

> Popsicles, etc., which may help with jaw or throat pain.

>

> 5. Make a list of how to take care of your pets, plants, etc., and

> make sure a friend or family member has a key to your home in case

you

> are kept overnight. This will ensure care for the critters should

the

> doctors choose to keep you an extra day.

>

> 6. If you know you will not want visitors for a few days

(especially

> as you cannot wash that hair of yours!) email or contact people you

> know may " drop by unannounced.

>

> 7. Most surgeons now require that patients get an age-appropriate

> vaccine (Prevnar or PCV7 and/or Penumovax or PPV23) prior to implant

> surgery. Make sure you discuss with your doctor the reasons for the

> vaccines, and when they recommend getting them.

>

> 8. Many surgeons require a physical prior to your surgery by your

> general practitioner. Some require that it be within 30 days of the

> surgery date. This physical may include additional tests like the

> EKG, CBC, BMT, PT/PTT, and chest x-ray. Discuss this with your

> surgeon at pre-operative visits.

>

> 9. Most surgeons ask that you stop taking aspirin, or

> spirin-containing products during the 14 days prior to your

surgery.

> Failure to do so, may cause your surgery to be cancelled. Some of

> these products are listed below, however this list is not

exhaustive.

> If in doubt, please contact your physician and/or surgeon. These

> products may include:

> Alka-Seltzer

> Anacin

> Arthritis pain formula

> Arthritis strength BC powder

> Arthritis strength Bufferin

> ASA enseals

> ASA suppositories

> Ascriptin

> Ascriptin ND Caplets

> Aspergum

> Aspermin

> Aspertab

> Axotal

> Azdone

> Bayer

> BC Powder

> Buffaprin

> Buaffasal

> Bufferin

> Buffets

> Buffex

> Buffinol

> Butalbital compound

> CAMA arthritis pain relief

> Children's chew. Aspirin

> Cope

> Damason-P

> Dasin

> Darvon Compound

> Epromate

> Equagesic Tablets

> Equazine M

> ES Bufferin

> Gensan

> Genuine Bayer Aspirin

> Goody's Headache Powder

> Isollyl Improved

> Lortab ASA tablets

> Magnaprin

> Marnol

> Micrainin

> Midol

> Measurin

> Monentum

> Norgesic

> Norwich Aspirin

> Pacanalgesic tablets

> Pain reliever tablets

> Percodan

> Presalin

> Persistin

> Salatim Capsules

> Saleto

> Salocol

> Sine-Off sinus

> Soma Compound

> St. ph's Aspirin

> Stanback Powder/Max Powder

> Supac

> Synalgos-DC Capsules

> Talwin Compound

> Therapy Bayer aspirin

> Tri-pain caplets

> Trigesic

> Ursinus inlay tabs

> Valesin

> Vanquish

> Verin

> Wesprin Buffered

> Zorprin

> (Certain herbs and supplements should also be checked with you

> doctor. Go to

> http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=SA00040 for more

information)

>

> 10. Just in case you are dizzy after surgery, and you live in a

home

> with stairs, make sure everything you need is on one level. That

way

> you won't have to go up and down stairs for a few days.

>

> 11. If you are the person in your household who pays the bills,

make

> sure you do this in advance. You can have them prepared, but ask a

> trusted friend to mail them on a particular date, or you can mail

them

> early. (Like the companies will complain for getting paid early?)

> You may not feel up to bookkeeping for several days, so be prepared.

>

> 12. Some CI patients were told they could not lift more than 10

> pounds for 3 weeks after surgery. If you are the grocery store

> shopper in your home, you may want to stock up on groceries as you

> will be unable to lift grocery bags full of food.

>

>

> 13. You cannot wear contacts in surgery. You cannot wear glasses

> during surgery. However, post-op, you will need to see to speech

> read, or to read notes written to you. Remove the " same side " arm

on

> your glasses as the side you are having implanted. Keep the tiny

> screw and side-arm in a ziplock bag in a SAFE place so that you can

> re-assemble them later.

>

> 14. Go the library or video store so that you will have plenty of

> things you can do while " resting " with your feet up.

>

> 15. If you take other prescription medicines for blood pressure,

> diabetes, etc., make sure you have a week to 10 days worth before

> having to have it re-filled. The last thing you want to do the day

> after surgery is try to get a prescription re-filled.

>

> 16. Check with your surgeon about acrylic nails, false nails, or

> polish. Some do not require that you remove it, however some ask

that

> you do. It is best to find out ahead of time, especially if you

wish

> a professional to remove your nails. Ask about both fingernails AND

> toe nails.

>

> 17. If you have questions that need answers, bring them with you at

> check-in so that you will have the answers prior to being released.

>

> 18. If you have short and/or very thin hair (OR if you fear a

> horrific hair cut!) you may want to invest in some hats and

scarves.

> Nice wide-rimmed hats with brightly colored scarves look great. The

> " guys " may want to do without the scarves – but baseball hats,

cowboy

> hats, etc., are all great options.

>

> 19. You can find numerous CI lists online, some of which have

> pictures of post-op haircuts. If you see one you like, and would

like

> the implant center to try to duplicate that " look " , print the

picture

> off and take it with you! It won't hurt to ask them to do their

best

> to leave you enough to work with later!

>

>

> Day of the Surgery

>

> 1. Whether you are wearing street clothes or pajamas home, make

sure

> the shirt buttons all the Way down the front. You will not want to

> try to pull something over your head. The same goes for your

jacket

> or coat if it is cold. No pullovers! Sweat pants, or " other " slip

on

> pants are a great idea as well. Skirts, dresses, hose? No way!

>

> 2. Plan to wear slip on shoes. You do not want to have to bend

over

> and tighten, then tie or snap shoes. No high heels. No-skid soles

> are best for OBVIOUS reasons.

>

> 3. If it is cold, bring a light scarf that you can lightly drape

over

> your head to protect it from the wind and cold.

>

> 4. Bring a small pad of paper and pen to communicate with others.

>

> 5. Bring your " CI ready " eye glasses (see pre-op above) and a

ziplock

> bag or container to keep hearing aids in while in surgery. If you

do

> not have someone to hold these for you and bring them directly to

you

> post-op, ask a nurse to take charge of them so that you can put your

> hearing aid back into the non-implanted ear after surgery. Label

the

> baggie with your glasses and hearing aids with marker, even if you

are

> leaving them in another person's care. You never know! They may

get

> misplaced.

>

> 6. If you know you will be spending the night in the hospital, make

> several nice signs that say " Deaf patient – Please face to

> communicate " , or other instructions. This can be taped to your

> door, above your bed, etc.

>

> 7. Do not wear jewelry – best to leave it at home.

>

>

> 8. Bring a picture ID with you. Once checked in, you can give it

to

> a family member or friend for safekeeping.

>

> 9. Bring crackers or other light snack with you. You may be in

> recovery for hours and they will forget to feed you more than

likely.

> Ask permission to eat peanut butter crackers, or ask for Jell-o or

> soup. (Make sure family or friends bring a snack or money to

purchase

> something from the cafeteria.)

>

> 10. Arrive ON TIME as registration takes a great deal of time, and

> mountains of paperwork. Bring your insurance information even though

> they should already have this. Don't take any chances.

>

> 11. Do not bring your purse, wallet, etc., unless you are leaving

> them in the care of a waiting family member or friend.

>

> 12. Talk to your doctor and anesthesiologist about anti-nausea

meds.

> This can be given through your IV during surgery and helps many

> patients in your immediate recovery. If you are extremely nervous

> beforehand, you can be given a light sedative like Xanax

or " other "

> through your IV. Talk to your doctor.

>

> 13. Want a Kodak memory? Make sure you bring a camera and instruct

> those around you to " snap happy " . YOU will not feel like taking

> pictures, but you can have designated people to take pictures, or

even

> run a video camera.

>

> Post-operative

>

> 1. Do not allow doctors or nurses to give you verbal instructions.

> Ask them to write EVERYTHING down. Even if you have a family member

> or friend listening as well, something may be forgotten.

>

> 2. Make sure there are clear instructions about incision care.

Make

> sure it is written down.

>

> 3. Make sure there are clear instructions written about HOW and

WHEN

> to wash your hair. You may want to find this information out ahead

of

> time in case you need to purchase special shampoos, etc.

>

> 4. After surgery, if you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth

open!

> Closing your mouth, or trying to hold the sneeze back may damage

your

> ears and break the clot from the surgery.

>

> 5. Avoid crowds and little ones if possible. You do not want to

> catch a cold, virus, etc. Your immune system will be weakened from

> the operation.

>

> 6. Do not drive for at least a week, however some surgeons ask that

> you do not for as long as two weeks. Obviously, if you are dizzy

and

> weak after 2 weeks, you still should not drive. " When " you can

drive

> varies a great deal based on the responses I received. Ask the

> doctor. Many who responded said they were told no driving as long

as

> they were still taking prescription pain meds.

>

>

> 7. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact your surgeon and

> implant center (with the actual names of a couple of nurses), and

your

> general practitioner.

>

> 8. Returning to work varies individual to individual. Speak to

your

> doctor about this, and stay in contact with your employer so that

they

> know how you are doing and your anticipated return date.

>

> 9. This may vary hospital to hospital, but no airline flying for at

> least 3 weeks after surgery.

>

> 10. Ask for an identification card the implant center may have

> available that you can carry with you in the future, to verify that

> you have a cochlear implant and that it cannot be removed.

> Security checkpoints in certain buildings, all airports and train

> stations, etc., will need to see proof of your medical implant.

>

[Guest guest]

>

> Advice, Hints and Suggested " To-Do's "

> From Those Who've BEEN THERE

>

> This is a list of advice I have received through numerous

listserves,

> emails, and online support groups regarding pre-operative and

> post-operative CI planning. This list is by no means exhaustive,

nor

> does it negate the importance of individuals checking with the

doctors

> about specifics they are concerned about in regards to their own

> medical history.

>

> My thanks to all who participated by sending me ideas and advice. I

> wish I could give credit to everyone, but I literally received 100's

> of individual pieces of information. Feel free to share this list

> with others, and hopefully all seeking information about CI surgery

> will find this list useful.

>

> Pre-operative

>

> 1. Purchase things like triple-antibiotic ointment, hydrogen

> peroxide, cotton balls, q-tips, over the counter pain relievers,

> shower caps, gauze, Vitamin E capsules,and special shampoos (see

> post-operative below – some could use baby shampoo right away, while

> others had to purchase " no rinse " shampoos for a week's use) PRIOR

to

> surgery. Discuss the use of each with doctors and nurses. The

> important thing is to purchase these prior to your surgery date so

> that all is ready for use when you get home. If you know you will

> have pain medication prescriptions and antibiotics, get them filled

> before surgery so that you don't have to worry about getting them

> after you get home.

>

> 2. Clean your house before you leave to go to the hospital! Wash

all

> of your dirty clothes, etc. No one wants to come home from even

> outpatient surgery to a dirty, messy house. Make sure you wash your

> bedding so that you have clean sheets to snooze on at night! Find

> towels to place over pillows so that ointment will not stain

> pillowcases.

>

> 3. Purchase extra pillows if you think you will need them, in order

> to prop yourself up better at night. Some CI patients borrowed a

> recliner in advance if they did not own one. This enabled them to

> sleep comfortably in a reclined position after surgery for a couple

of

> weeks.

>

> 4. Purchase healthy microwave meals, or freeze a week's worth of

> meals in advance. This will enable you to quickly re-heat food so

> that you do not have to prepare and cook meals immediately following

> your surgery. Put them in cheap microwaveable plastic containers so

> that you can throw them away and not have to wash dishes. Purchase

> fresh fruit the day before your surgery so that you have healthy

> snacks readily available. Wash them ahead of time so that you need

> only retrieve a piece from the fridge. Stock up on applesauce,

> Popsicles, etc., which may help with jaw or throat pain.

>

> 5. Make a list of how to take care of your pets, plants, etc., and

> make sure a friend or family member has a key to your home in case

you

> are kept overnight. This will ensure care for the critters should

the

> doctors choose to keep you an extra day.

>

> 6. If you know you will not want visitors for a few days

(especially

> as you cannot wash that hair of yours!) email or contact people you

> know may " drop by unannounced.

>

> 7. Most surgeons now require that patients get an age-appropriate

> vaccine (Prevnar or PCV7 and/or Penumovax or PPV23) prior to implant

> surgery. Make sure you discuss with your doctor the reasons for the

> vaccines, and when they recommend getting them.

>

> 8. Many surgeons require a physical prior to your surgery by your

> general practitioner. Some require that it be within 30 days of the

> surgery date. This physical may include additional tests like the

> EKG, CBC, BMT, PT/PTT, and chest x-ray. Discuss this with your

> surgeon at pre-operative visits.

>

> 9. Most surgeons ask that you stop taking aspirin, or

> spirin-containing products during the 14 days prior to your

surgery.

> Failure to do so, may cause your surgery to be cancelled. Some of

> these products are listed below, however this list is not

exhaustive.

> If in doubt, please contact your physician and/or surgeon. These

> products may include:

> Alka-Seltzer

> Anacin

> Arthritis pain formula

> Arthritis strength BC powder

> Arthritis strength Bufferin

> ASA enseals

> ASA suppositories

> Ascriptin

> Ascriptin ND Caplets

> Aspergum

> Aspermin

> Aspertab

> Axotal

> Azdone

> Bayer

> BC Powder

> Buffaprin

> Buaffasal

> Bufferin

> Buffets

> Buffex

> Buffinol

> Butalbital compound

> CAMA arthritis pain relief

> Children's chew. Aspirin

> Cope

> Damason-P

> Dasin

> Darvon Compound

> Epromate

> Equagesic Tablets

> Equazine M

> ES Bufferin

> Gensan

> Genuine Bayer Aspirin

> Goody's Headache Powder

> Isollyl Improved

> Lortab ASA tablets

> Magnaprin

> Marnol

> Micrainin

> Midol

> Measurin

> Monentum

> Norgesic

> Norwich Aspirin

> Pacanalgesic tablets

> Pain reliever tablets

> Percodan

> Presalin

> Persistin

> Salatim Capsules

> Saleto

> Salocol

> Sine-Off sinus

> Soma Compound

> St. ph's Aspirin

> Stanback Powder/Max Powder

> Supac

> Synalgos-DC Capsules

> Talwin Compound

> Therapy Bayer aspirin

> Tri-pain caplets

> Trigesic

> Ursinus inlay tabs

> Valesin

> Vanquish

> Verin

> Wesprin Buffered

> Zorprin

> (Certain herbs and supplements should also be checked with you

> doctor. Go to

> http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=SA00040 for more

information)

>

> 10. Just in case you are dizzy after surgery, and you live in a

home

> with stairs, make sure everything you need is on one level. That

way

> you won't have to go up and down stairs for a few days.

>

> 11. If you are the person in your household who pays the bills,

make

> sure you do this in advance. You can have them prepared, but ask a

> trusted friend to mail them on a particular date, or you can mail

them

> early. (Like the companies will complain for getting paid early?)

> You may not feel up to bookkeeping for several days, so be prepared.

>

> 12. Some CI patients were told they could not lift more than 10

> pounds for 3 weeks after surgery. If you are the grocery store

> shopper in your home, you may want to stock up on groceries as you

> will be unable to lift grocery bags full of food.

>

>

> 13. You cannot wear contacts in surgery. You cannot wear glasses

> during surgery. However, post-op, you will need to see to speech

> read, or to read notes written to you. Remove the " same side " arm

on

> your glasses as the side you are having implanted. Keep the tiny

> screw and side-arm in a ziplock bag in a SAFE place so that you can

> re-assemble them later.

>

> 14. Go the library or video store so that you will have plenty of

> things you can do while " resting " with your feet up.

>

> 15. If you take other prescription medicines for blood pressure,

> diabetes, etc., make sure you have a week to 10 days worth before

> having to have it re-filled. The last thing you want to do the day

> after surgery is try to get a prescription re-filled.

>

> 16. Check with your surgeon about acrylic nails, false nails, or

> polish. Some do not require that you remove it, however some ask

that

> you do. It is best to find out ahead of time, especially if you

wish

> a professional to remove your nails. Ask about both fingernails AND

> toe nails.

>

> 17. If you have questions that need answers, bring them with you at

> check-in so that you will have the answers prior to being released.

>

> 18. If you have short and/or very thin hair (OR if you fear a

> horrific hair cut!) you may want to invest in some hats and

scarves.

> Nice wide-rimmed hats with brightly colored scarves look great. The

> " guys " may want to do without the scarves – but baseball hats,

cowboy

> hats, etc., are all great options.

>

> 19. You can find numerous CI lists online, some of which have

> pictures of post-op haircuts. If you see one you like, and would

like

> the implant center to try to duplicate that " look " , print the

picture

> off and take it with you! It won't hurt to ask them to do their

best

> to leave you enough to work with later!

>

>

> Day of the Surgery

>

> 1. Whether you are wearing street clothes or pajamas home, make

sure

> the shirt buttons all the Way down the front. You will not want to

> try to pull something over your head. The same goes for your

jacket

> or coat if it is cold. No pullovers! Sweat pants, or " other " slip

on

> pants are a great idea as well. Skirts, dresses, hose? No way!

>

> 2. Plan to wear slip on shoes. You do not want to have to bend

over

> and tighten, then tie or snap shoes. No high heels. No-skid soles

> are best for OBVIOUS reasons.

>

> 3. If it is cold, bring a light scarf that you can lightly drape

over

> your head to protect it from the wind and cold.

>

> 4. Bring a small pad of paper and pen to communicate with others.

>

> 5. Bring your " CI ready " eye glasses (see pre-op above) and a

ziplock

> bag or container to keep hearing aids in while in surgery. If you

do

> not have someone to hold these for you and bring them directly to

you

> post-op, ask a nurse to take charge of them so that you can put your

> hearing aid back into the non-implanted ear after surgery. Label

the

> baggie with your glasses and hearing aids with marker, even if you

are

> leaving them in another person's care. You never know! They may

get

> misplaced.

>

> 6. If you know you will be spending the night in the hospital, make

> several nice signs that say " Deaf patient – Please face to

> communicate " , or other instructions. This can be taped to your

> door, above your bed, etc.

>

> 7. Do not wear jewelry – best to leave it at home.

>

>

> 8. Bring a picture ID with you. Once checked in, you can give it

to

> a family member or friend for safekeeping.

>

> 9. Bring crackers or other light snack with you. You may be in

> recovery for hours and they will forget to feed you more than

likely.

> Ask permission to eat peanut butter crackers, or ask for Jell-o or

> soup. (Make sure family or friends bring a snack or money to

purchase

> something from the cafeteria.)

>

> 10. Arrive ON TIME as registration takes a great deal of time, and

> mountains of paperwork. Bring your insurance information even though

> they should already have this. Don't take any chances.

>

> 11. Do not bring your purse, wallet, etc., unless you are leaving

> them in the care of a waiting family member or friend.

>

> 12. Talk to your doctor and anesthesiologist about anti-nausea

meds.

> This can be given through your IV during surgery and helps many

> patients in your immediate recovery. If you are extremely nervous

> beforehand, you can be given a light sedative like Xanax

or " other "

> through your IV. Talk to your doctor.

>

> 13. Want a Kodak memory? Make sure you bring a camera and instruct

> those around you to " snap happy " . YOU will not feel like taking

> pictures, but you can have designated people to take pictures, or

even

> run a video camera.

>

> Post-operative

>

> 1. Do not allow doctors or nurses to give you verbal instructions.

> Ask them to write EVERYTHING down. Even if you have a family member

> or friend listening as well, something may be forgotten.

>

> 2. Make sure there are clear instructions about incision care.

Make

> sure it is written down.

>

> 3. Make sure there are clear instructions written about HOW and

WHEN

> to wash your hair. You may want to find this information out ahead

of

> time in case you need to purchase special shampoos, etc.

>

> 4. After surgery, if you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth

open!

> Closing your mouth, or trying to hold the sneeze back may damage

your

> ears and break the clot from the surgery.

>

> 5. Avoid crowds and little ones if possible. You do not want to

> catch a cold, virus, etc. Your immune system will be weakened from

> the operation.

>

> 6. Do not drive for at least a week, however some surgeons ask that

> you do not for as long as two weeks. Obviously, if you are dizzy

and

> weak after 2 weeks, you still should not drive. " When " you can

drive

> varies a great deal based on the responses I received. Ask the

> doctor. Many who responded said they were told no driving as long

as

> they were still taking prescription pain meds.

>

>

> 7. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact your surgeon and

> implant center (with the actual names of a couple of nurses), and

your

> general practitioner.

>

> 8. Returning to work varies individual to individual. Speak to

your

> doctor about this, and stay in contact with your employer so that

they

> know how you are doing and your anticipated return date.

>

> 9. This may vary hospital to hospital, but no airline flying for at

> least 3 weeks after surgery.

>

> 10. Ask for an identification card the implant center may have

> available that you can carry with you in the future, to verify that

> you have a cochlear implant and that it cannot be removed.

> Security checkpoints in certain buildings, all airports and train

> stations, etc., will need to see proof of your medical implant.

>

[Guest guest]

Wow, what a great list! My surgery is next Tuesday and this list has

some great pre and post-op suggestions! A lot of stuff I never would

have even thought of! So thanks to whoever put this together. You

really did a great job thinking of EVERYTHING!

>

> Advice, Hints and Suggested " To-Do's "

> From Those Who've BEEN THERE

>

> This is a list of advice I have received through numerous

listserves,

> emails, and online support groups regarding pre-operative and

> post-operative CI planning. This list is by no means exhaustive,

nor

> does it negate the importance of individuals checking with the

doctors

> about specifics they are concerned about in regards to their own

> medical history.

>

> My thanks to all who participated by sending me ideas and advice. I

> wish I could give credit to everyone, but I literally received 100's

> of individual pieces of information. Feel free to share this list

> with others, and hopefully all seeking information about CI surgery

> will find this list useful.

>

> Pre-operative

>

> 1. Purchase things like triple-antibiotic ointment, hydrogen

> peroxide, cotton balls, q-tips, over the counter pain relievers,

> shower caps, gauze, Vitamin E capsules,and special shampoos (see

> post-operative below – some could use baby shampoo right away, while

> others had to purchase " no rinse " shampoos for a week's use) PRIOR

to

> surgery. Discuss the use of each with doctors and nurses. The

> important thing is to purchase these prior to your surgery date so

> that all is ready for use when you get home. If you know you will

> have pain medication prescriptions and antibiotics, get them filled

> before surgery so that you don't have to worry about getting them

> after you get home.

>

> 2. Clean your house before you leave to go to the hospital! Wash

all

> of your dirty clothes, etc. No one wants to come home from even

> outpatient surgery to a dirty, messy house. Make sure you wash your

> bedding so that you have clean sheets to snooze on at night! Find

> towels to place over pillows so that ointment will not stain

> pillowcases.

>

> 3. Purchase extra pillows if you think you will need them, in order

> to prop yourself up better at night. Some CI patients borrowed a

> recliner in advance if they did not own one. This enabled them to

> sleep comfortably in a reclined position after surgery for a couple

of

> weeks.

>

> 4. Purchase healthy microwave meals, or freeze a week's worth of

> meals in advance. This will enable you to quickly re-heat food so

> that you do not have to prepare and cook meals immediately following

> your surgery. Put them in cheap microwaveable plastic containers so

> that you can throw them away and not have to wash dishes. Purchase

> fresh fruit the day before your surgery so that you have healthy

> snacks readily available. Wash them ahead of time so that you need

> only retrieve a piece from the fridge. Stock up on applesauce,

> Popsicles, etc., which may help with jaw or throat pain.

>

> 5. Make a list of how to take care of your pets, plants, etc., and

> make sure a friend or family member has a key to your home in case

you

> are kept overnight. This will ensure care for the critters should

the

> doctors choose to keep you an extra day.

>

> 6. If you know you will not want visitors for a few days

(especially

> as you cannot wash that hair of yours!) email or contact people you

> know may " drop by unannounced.

>

> 7. Most surgeons now require that patients get an age-appropriate

> vaccine (Prevnar or PCV7 and/or Penumovax or PPV23) prior to implant

> surgery. Make sure you discuss with your doctor the reasons for the

> vaccines, and when they recommend getting them.

>

> 8. Many surgeons require a physical prior to your surgery by your

> general practitioner. Some require that it be within 30 days of the

> surgery date. This physical may include additional tests like the

> EKG, CBC, BMT, PT/PTT, and chest x-ray. Discuss this with your

> surgeon at pre-operative visits.

>

> 9. Most surgeons ask that you stop taking aspirin, or

> spirin-containing products during the 14 days prior to your

surgery.

> Failure to do so, may cause your surgery to be cancelled. Some of

> these products are listed below, however this list is not

exhaustive.

> If in doubt, please contact your physician and/or surgeon. These

> products may include:

> Alka-Seltzer

> Anacin

> Arthritis pain formula

> Arthritis strength BC powder

> Arthritis strength Bufferin

> ASA enseals

> ASA suppositories

> Ascriptin

> Ascriptin ND Caplets

> Aspergum

> Aspermin

> Aspertab

> Axotal

> Azdone

> Bayer

> BC Powder

> Buffaprin

> Buaffasal

> Bufferin

> Buffets

> Buffex

> Buffinol

> Butalbital compound

> CAMA arthritis pain relief

> Children's chew. Aspirin

> Cope

> Damason-P

> Dasin

> Darvon Compound

> Epromate

> Equagesic Tablets

> Equazine M

> ES Bufferin

> Gensan

> Genuine Bayer Aspirin

> Goody's Headache Powder

> Isollyl Improved

> Lortab ASA tablets

> Magnaprin

> Marnol

> Micrainin

> Midol

> Measurin

> Monentum

> Norgesic

> Norwich Aspirin

> Pacanalgesic tablets

> Pain reliever tablets

> Percodan

> Presalin

> Persistin

> Salatim Capsules

> Saleto

> Salocol

> Sine-Off sinus

> Soma Compound

> St. ph's Aspirin

> Stanback Powder/Max Powder

> Supac

> Synalgos-DC Capsules

> Talwin Compound

> Therapy Bayer aspirin

> Tri-pain caplets

> Trigesic

> Ursinus inlay tabs

> Valesin

> Vanquish

> Verin

> Wesprin Buffered

> Zorprin

> (Certain herbs and supplements should also be checked with you

> doctor. Go to

> http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=SA00040 for more

information)

>

> 10. Just in case you are dizzy after surgery, and you live in a

home

> with stairs, make sure everything you need is on one level. That

way

> you won't have to go up and down stairs for a few days.

>

> 11. If you are the person in your household who pays the bills,

make

> sure you do this in advance. You can have them prepared, but ask a

> trusted friend to mail them on a particular date, or you can mail

them

> early. (Like the companies will complain for getting paid early?)

> You may not feel up to bookkeeping for several days, so be prepared.

>

> 12. Some CI patients were told they could not lift more than 10

> pounds for 3 weeks after surgery. If you are the grocery store

> shopper in your home, you may want to stock up on groceries as you

> will be unable to lift grocery bags full of food.

>

>

> 13. You cannot wear contacts in surgery. You cannot wear glasses

> during surgery. However, post-op, you will need to see to speech

> read, or to read notes written to you. Remove the " same side " arm

on

> your glasses as the side you are having implanted. Keep the tiny

> screw and side-arm in a ziplock bag in a SAFE place so that you can

> re-assemble them later.

>

> 14. Go the library or video store so that you will have plenty of

> things you can do while " resting " with your feet up.

>

> 15. If you take other prescription medicines for blood pressure,

> diabetes, etc., make sure you have a week to 10 days worth before

> having to have it re-filled. The last thing you want to do the day

> after surgery is try to get a prescription re-filled.

>

> 16. Check with your surgeon about acrylic nails, false nails, or

> polish. Some do not require that you remove it, however some ask

that

> you do. It is best to find out ahead of time, especially if you

wish

> a professional to remove your nails. Ask about both fingernails AND

> toe nails.

>

> 17. If you have questions that need answers, bring them with you at

> check-in so that you will have the answers prior to being released.

>

> 18. If you have short and/or very thin hair (OR if you fear a

> horrific hair cut!) you may want to invest in some hats and

scarves.

> Nice wide-rimmed hats with brightly colored scarves look great. The

> " guys " may want to do without the scarves – but baseball hats,

cowboy

> hats, etc., are all great options.

>

> 19. You can find numerous CI lists online, some of which have

> pictures of post-op haircuts. If you see one you like, and would

like

> the implant center to try to duplicate that " look " , print the

picture

> off and take it with you! It won't hurt to ask them to do their

best

> to leave you enough to work with later!

>

>

> Day of the Surgery

>

> 1. Whether you are wearing street clothes or pajamas home, make

sure

> the shirt buttons all the Way down the front. You will not want to

> try to pull something over your head. The same goes for your

jacket

> or coat if it is cold. No pullovers! Sweat pants, or " other " slip

on

> pants are a great idea as well. Skirts, dresses, hose? No way!

>

> 2. Plan to wear slip on shoes. You do not want to have to bend

over

> and tighten, then tie or snap shoes. No high heels. No-skid soles

> are best for OBVIOUS reasons.

>

> 3. If it is cold, bring a light scarf that you can lightly drape

over

> your head to protect it from the wind and cold.

>

> 4. Bring a small pad of paper and pen to communicate with others.

>

> 5. Bring your " CI ready " eye glasses (see pre-op above) and a

ziplock

> bag or container to keep hearing aids in while in surgery. If you

do

> not have someone to hold these for you and bring them directly to

you

> post-op, ask a nurse to take charge of them so that you can put your

> hearing aid back into the non-implanted ear after surgery. Label

the

> baggie with your glasses and hearing aids with marker, even if you

are

> leaving them in another person's care. You never know! They may

get

> misplaced.

>

> 6. If you know you will be spending the night in the hospital, make

> several nice signs that say " Deaf patient – Please face to

> communicate " , or other instructions. This can be taped to your

> door, above your bed, etc.

>

> 7. Do not wear jewelry – best to leave it at home.

>

>

> 8. Bring a picture ID with you. Once checked in, you can give it

to

> a family member or friend for safekeeping.

>

> 9. Bring crackers or other light snack with you. You may be in

> recovery for hours and they will forget to feed you more than

likely.

> Ask permission to eat peanut butter crackers, or ask for Jell-o or

> soup. (Make sure family or friends bring a snack or money to

purchase

> something from the cafeteria.)

>

> 10. Arrive ON TIME as registration takes a great deal of time, and

> mountains of paperwork. Bring your insurance information even though

> they should already have this. Don't take any chances.

>

> 11. Do not bring your purse, wallet, etc., unless you are leaving

> them in the care of a waiting family member or friend.

>

> 12. Talk to your doctor and anesthesiologist about anti-nausea

meds.

> This can be given through your IV during surgery and helps many

> patients in your immediate recovery. If you are extremely nervous

> beforehand, you can be given a light sedative like Xanax

or " other "

> through your IV. Talk to your doctor.

>

> 13. Want a Kodak memory? Make sure you bring a camera and instruct

> those around you to " snap happy " . YOU will not feel like taking

> pictures, but you can have designated people to take pictures, or

even

> run a video camera.

>

> Post-operative

>

> 1. Do not allow doctors or nurses to give you verbal instructions.

> Ask them to write EVERYTHING down. Even if you have a family member

> or friend listening as well, something may be forgotten.

>

> 2. Make sure there are clear instructions about incision care.

Make

> sure it is written down.

>

> 3. Make sure there are clear instructions written about HOW and

WHEN

> to wash your hair. You may want to find this information out ahead

of

> time in case you need to purchase special shampoos, etc.

>

> 4. After surgery, if you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth

open!

> Closing your mouth, or trying to hold the sneeze back may damage

your

> ears and break the clot from the surgery.

>

> 5. Avoid crowds and little ones if possible. You do not want to

> catch a cold, virus, etc. Your immune system will be weakened from

> the operation.

>

> 6. Do not drive for at least a week, however some surgeons ask that

> you do not for as long as two weeks. Obviously, if you are dizzy

and

> weak after 2 weeks, you still should not drive. " When " you can

drive

> varies a great deal based on the responses I received. Ask the

> doctor. Many who responded said they were told no driving as long

as

> they were still taking prescription pain meds.

>

>

> 7. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact your surgeon and

> implant center (with the actual names of a couple of nurses), and

your

> general practitioner.

>

> 8. Returning to work varies individual to individual. Speak to

your

> doctor about this, and stay in contact with your employer so that

they

> know how you are doing and your anticipated return date.

>

> 9. This may vary hospital to hospital, but no airline flying for at

> least 3 weeks after surgery.

>

> 10. Ask for an identification card the implant center may have

> available that you can carry with you in the future, to verify that

> you have a cochlear implant and that it cannot be removed.

> Security checkpoints in certain buildings, all airports and train

> stations, etc., will need to see proof of your medical implant.

>

[Guest guest]

Hi P

Thanks for sharing these important information to us all. Between Alice's

information and yours will help all of us who will be getting CI now or in the

future.

I do have couple question though:

1. You mentioned Vitamin E, why? For those of us who have Retinitis Pigmentosa

(RP), Vitamin E supplement is a no no as it can speed up loosing our vision.

2. Do you know why the hospital said no flying up to three weeks? I would be

flying back home about 4 to 7 days after the surgery. (9. This may vary

hospital to hospital, but no airline flying for at least 3 weeks after surgery).

Thank you in advance for any info you can give me.

Dolly Dolphin waiting patiently

Advice, Hints and Suggested " To-Do's "

Advice, Hints and Suggested " To-Do's "

From Those Who've BEEN THERE

This is a list of advice I have received through numerous listserves,

emails, and online support groups regarding pre-operative and

post-operative CI planning. This list is by no means exhaustive, nor

does it negate the importance of individuals checking with the doctors

about specifics they are concerned about in regards to their own

medical history.

My thanks to all who participated by sending me ideas and advice. I

wish I could give credit to everyone, but I literally received 100's

of individual pieces of information. Feel free to share this list

with others, and hopefully all seeking information about CI surgery

will find this list useful.

Pre-operative

1. Purchase things like triple-antibiotic ointment, hydrogen

peroxide, cotton balls, q-tips, over the counter pain relievers,

shower caps, gauze, Vitamin E capsules,and special shampoos (see

post-operative below - some could use baby shampoo right away, while

others had to purchase " no rinse " shampoos for a week's use) PRIOR to

surgery. Discuss the use of each with doctors and nurses. The

important thing is to purchase these prior to your surgery date so

that all is ready for use when you get home. If you know you will

have pain medication prescriptions and antibiotics, get them filled

before surgery so that you don't have to worry about getting them

after you get home.

2. Clean your house before you leave to go to the hospital! Wash all

of your dirty clothes, etc. No one wants to come home from even

outpatient surgery to a dirty, messy house. Make sure you wash your

bedding so that you have clean sheets to snooze on at night! Find

towels to place over pillows so that ointment will not stain

pillowcases.

3. Purchase extra pillows if you think you will need them, in order

to prop yourself up better at night. Some CI patients borrowed a

recliner in advance if they did not own one. This enabled them to

sleep comfortably in a reclined position after surgery for a couple of

weeks.

4. Purchase healthy microwave meals, or freeze a week's worth of

meals in advance. This will enable you to quickly re-heat food so

that you do not have to prepare and cook meals immediately following

your surgery. Put them in cheap microwaveable plastic containers so

that you can throw them away and not have to wash dishes. Purchase

fresh fruit the day before your surgery so that you have healthy

snacks readily available. Wash them ahead of time so that you need

only retrieve a piece from the fridge. Stock up on applesauce,

Popsicles, etc., which may help with jaw or throat pain.

5. Make a list of how to take care of your pets, plants, etc., and

make sure a friend or family member has a key to your home in case you

are kept overnight. This will ensure care for the critters should the

doctors choose to keep you an extra day.

6. If you know you will not want visitors for a few days (especially

as you cannot wash that hair of yours!) email or contact people you

know may " drop by unannounced.

7. Most surgeons now require that patients get an age-appropriate

vaccine (Prevnar or PCV7 and/or Penumovax or PPV23) prior to implant

surgery. Make sure you discuss with your doctor the reasons for the

vaccines, and when they recommend getting them.

8. Many surgeons require a physical prior to your surgery by your

general practitioner. Some require that it be within 30 days of the

surgery date. This physical may include additional tests like the

EKG, CBC, BMT, PT/PTT, and chest x-ray. Discuss this with your

surgeon at pre-operative visits.

9. Most surgeons ask that you stop taking aspirin, or

spirin-containing products during the 14 days prior to your surgery.

Failure to do so, may cause your surgery to be cancelled. Some of

these products are listed below, however this list is not exhaustive.

If in doubt, please contact your physician and/or surgeon. These

products may include:

Alka-Seltzer

Anacin

Arthritis pain formula

Arthritis strength BC powder

Arthritis strength Bufferin

ASA enseals

ASA suppositories

Ascriptin

Ascriptin ND Caplets

Aspergum

Aspermin

Aspertab

Axotal

Azdone

Bayer

BC Powder

Buffaprin

Buaffasal

Bufferin

Buffets

Buffex

Buffinol

Butalbital compound

CAMA arthritis pain relief

Children's chew. Aspirin

Cope

Damason-P

Dasin

Darvon Compound

Epromate

Equagesic Tablets

Equazine M

ES Bufferin

Gensan

Genuine Bayer Aspirin

Goody's Headache Powder

Isollyl Improved

Lortab ASA tablets

Magnaprin

Marnol

Micrainin

Midol

Measurin

Monentum

Norgesic

Norwich Aspirin

Pacanalgesic tablets

Pain reliever tablets

Percodan

Presalin

Persistin

Salatim Capsules

Saleto

Salocol

Sine-Off sinus

Soma Compound

St. ph's Aspirin

Stanback Powder/Max Powder

Supac

Synalgos-DC Capsules

Talwin Compound

Therapy Bayer aspirin

Tri-pain caplets

Trigesic

Ursinus inlay tabs

Valesin

Vanquish

Verin

Wesprin Buffered

Zorprin

(Certain herbs and supplements should also be checked with you

doctor. Go to

http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=SA00040 for more information)

10. Just in case you are dizzy after surgery, and you live in a home

with stairs, make sure everything you need is on one level. That way

you won't have to go up and down stairs for a few days.

11. If you are the person in your household who pays the bills, make

sure you do this in advance. You can have them prepared, but ask a

trusted friend to mail them on a particular date, or you can mail them

early. (Like the companies will complain for getting paid early?)

You may not feel up to bookkeeping for several days, so be prepared.

12. Some CI patients were told they could not lift more than 10

pounds for 3 weeks after surgery. If you are the grocery store

shopper in your home, you may want to stock up on groceries as you

will be unable to lift grocery bags full of food.

13. You cannot wear contacts in surgery. You cannot wear glasses

during surgery. However, post-op, you will need to see to speech

read, or to read notes written to you. Remove the " same side " arm on

your glasses as the side you are having implanted. Keep the tiny

screw and side-arm in a ziplock bag in a SAFE place so that you can

re-assemble them later.

14. Go the library or video store so that you will have plenty of

things you can do while " resting " with your feet up.

15. If you take other prescription medicines for blood pressure,

diabetes, etc., make sure you have a week to 10 days worth before

having to have it re-filled. The last thing you want to do the day

after surgery is try to get a prescription re-filled.

16. Check with your surgeon about acrylic nails, false nails, or

polish. Some do not require that you remove it, however some ask that

you do. It is best to find out ahead of time, especially if you wish

a professional to remove your nails. Ask about both fingernails AND

toe nails.

17. If you have questions that need answers, bring them with you at

check-in so that you will have the answers prior to being released.

18. If you have short and/or very thin hair (OR if you fear a

horrific hair cut!) you may want to invest in some hats and scarves.

Nice wide-rimmed hats with brightly colored scarves look great. The

" guys " may want to do without the scarves - but baseball hats, cowboy

hats, etc., are all great options.

19. You can find numerous CI lists online, some of which have

pictures of post-op haircuts. If you see one you like, and would like

the implant center to try to duplicate that " look " , print the picture

off and take it with you! It won't hurt to ask them to do their best

to leave you enough to work with later!

Day of the Surgery

1. Whether you are wearing street clothes or pajamas home, make sure

the shirt buttons all the Way down the front. You will not want to

try to pull something over your head. The same goes for your jacket

or coat if it is cold. No pullovers! Sweat pants, or " other " slip on

pants are a great idea as well. Skirts, dresses, hose? No way!

2. Plan to wear slip on shoes. You do not want to have to bend over

and tighten, then tie or snap shoes. No high heels. No-skid soles

are best for OBVIOUS reasons.

3. If it is cold, bring a light scarf that you can lightly drape over

your head to protect it from the wind and cold.

4. Bring a small pad of paper and pen to communicate with others.

5. Bring your " CI ready " eye glasses (see pre-op above) and a ziplock

bag or container to keep hearing aids in while in surgery. If you do

not have someone to hold these for you and bring them directly to you

post-op, ask a nurse to take charge of them so that you can put your

hearing aid back into the non-implanted ear after surgery. Label the

baggie with your glasses and hearing aids with marker, even if you are

leaving them in another person's care. You never know! They may get

misplaced.

6. If you know you will be spending the night in the hospital, make

several nice signs that say " Deaf patient - Please face to

communicate " , or other instructions. This can be taped to your

door, above your bed, etc.

7. Do not wear jewelry - best to leave it at home.

8. Bring a picture ID with you. Once checked in, you can give it to

a family member or friend for safekeeping.

9. Bring crackers or other light snack with you. You may be in

recovery for hours and they will forget to feed you more than likely.

Ask permission to eat peanut butter crackers, or ask for Jell-o or

soup. (Make sure family or friends bring a snack or money to purchase

something from the cafeteria.)

10. Arrive ON TIME as registration takes a great deal of time, and

mountains of paperwork. Bring your insurance information even though

they should already have this. Don't take any chances.

11. Do not bring your purse, wallet, etc., unless you are leaving

them in the care of a waiting family member or friend.

12. Talk to your doctor and anesthesiologist about anti-nausea meds.

This can be given through your IV during surgery and helps many

patients in your immediate recovery. If you are extremely nervous

beforehand, you can be given a light sedative like Xanax or " other "

through your IV. Talk to your doctor.

13. Want a Kodak memory? Make sure you bring a camera and instruct

those around you to " snap happy " . YOU will not feel like taking

pictures, but you can have designated people to take pictures, or even

run a video camera.

Post-operative

1. Do not allow doctors or nurses to give you verbal instructions.

Ask them to write EVERYTHING down. Even if you have a family member

or friend listening as well, something may be forgotten.

2. Make sure there are clear instructions about incision care. Make

sure it is written down.

3. Make sure there are clear instructions written about HOW and WHEN

to wash your hair. You may want to find this information out ahead of

time in case you need to purchase special shampoos, etc.

4. After surgery, if you have to sneeze, do so with your mouth open!

Closing your mouth, or trying to hold the sneeze back may damage your

ears and break the clot from the surgery.

5. Avoid crowds and little ones if possible. You do not want to

catch a cold, virus, etc. Your immune system will be weakened from

the operation.

6. Do not drive for at least a week, however some surgeons ask that

you do not for as long as two weeks. Obviously, if you are dizzy and

weak after 2 weeks, you still should not drive. " When " you can drive

varies a great deal based on the responses I received. Ask the

doctor. Many who responded said they were told no driving as long as

they were still taking prescription pain meds.

7. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact your surgeon and

implant center (with the actual names of a couple of nurses), and your

general practitioner.

8. Returning to work varies individual to individual. Speak to your

doctor about this, and stay in contact with your employer so that they

know how you are doing and your anticipated return date.

9. This may vary hospital to hospital, but no airline flying for at

least 3 weeks after surgery.

10. Ask for an identification card the implant center may have

available that you can carry with you in the future, to verify that

you have a cochlear implant and that it cannot be removed.

Security checkpoints in certain buildings, all airports and train

stations, etc., will need to see proof of your medical implant.

[Guest guest]

Yes - this is an excellent list for anyone preparing for CI Surgery.

You can find it on the CI Hear website along with many peices of

information that may help you.

Here is the link at the website....you should open it with MS Word.

http://www..com/documents/AdviceLinksandSuggestionsFromThoseWhoH

aveBeenThere.doc

Many people don't realize that there are hundreds of links at

.com. For those of you who are new - that website is a direct

connection to this listserv. Because I couldn't store all the

wonderful information that came thru the group, I developed

.com as a place to put the information so that everyone who

needed it could find it.

If you haven't gone to the site and taken the time to go thru the

links, you might get a surprise. I'm in the process of working on

some updates but there is nothing on that site that you will find out

of date.

Alice

http://www..com

[Guest guest]

Hey Dolly!

I'm glad this list helped you. If you want a WORD document copy of

this (much easier to read and print out) please let me know. You can

email me at hearinglossassociation@....

Unfortunately, I have no medical experience. I cannot answer your

question about the Vitamin E. I would talk to your doctor about it.

He should know your case well enough that he can answer any questions

you have. I also do not remember who sent me the info about flying.

I do not know if that is a " general guideline and rule " , or if it was

from on particular CI patient who rec'd those instructions post-op.

Sorry I cannot answer these questions. Perhaps someone else on the

list can chime in and do so?

P

[Guest guest]

Thanks for that link Alice. I " searched high and low " and couldn't

find that. Smile!

P

[Guest guest]

Whenever you have a question of this nature, you should always ask your

surgeon. Many will tell you not to take certain supplements for

various reasons. Since Vitamin E does cause the blood to thin, that

may be the reason due to bleeding.

As both and I have said here - Ask the Doctor.

Alice

http://www..com

>

>

> Unfortunately, I have no medical experience. I cannot answer your

> question about the Vitamin E. I would talk to your doctor about it.

> He should know your case well enough that he can answer any questions

> you have.