Is There a Doctor in the House?

There’s nothing fun about sitting in a hospital waiting room. And that’s where my husband and I recently spent an afternoon as doctors repaired our daughter’s knee. A volunteer welcomed us, a nurse liaison provided updates, and the lounge chairs were comfortable. For a couple of hours, time seemed to stand still—and then it seemed to shift into fast-forward. Jenny was moved to an observation room, fed, medicated, exercised, dressed, and released to go home. 

She’ll be fine. But it’s been hard to figure out how to use (and where to put) all the medicines, braces, and machines. Trips to the bathroom are challenging. So is getting some sleep. On the brighter side, have you ever heard of “waterless” shower caps that you warm up in the microwave? They really work! If interested, you can check them out at retail stores or online sites such as activeforever.com.

I keep reminding myself that it’s times like these that make one appreciate the simple joys of living well. I’m going to take a nice long walk sometime soon and do just that.

We’ve found that cell phones come in real handy when Jenny needs help, especially during the night.

What tips, products, or other ideas do you suggest for those who are recovering at home?

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5 Comments ( Post a Comment )

  1. Robin
    Posted April 8, 2009 at 8:20 am | Permalink

    Wendy, I went through a similar experience as the patient recovering at home. I healed quicker than expected, but it wasn’t the handicap-friendly products that got me through. It was my mother, who never left my side, no matter how annoyed I became with her, she put up with me. I’m convinced that was the reason I bounced back as soon as I did.

  2. Jenny
    Posted April 8, 2009 at 11:34 am | Permalink

    I would have to agree with you Robin. My Mom used her nursing skills to help me recover, but her patience and love were what really got my through those days after surgery. Moms are great! Love you Mom! – Jen

  3. Jenny
    Posted April 8, 2009 at 11:36 am | Permalink

    O shoot,what I meant to say was “her patience and love were what really got ME through those dose after surgery.” I have to correct that being a writer’s daughter. haha

  4. Jenny
    Posted April 8, 2009 at 11:37 am | Permalink

    I did it again. O well, you get what I’m saying.

  5. Mona
    Posted April 9, 2009 at 7:18 am | Permalink

    Wendy,

    Yes the cell phones do work!!! I do hope Jenny is getting better. Parents just being there is a comfort I am sure for Jenny. When Amanda had back surgery, she was in and out of bed for 3 weeks. WE MADE IT!!! We used a lot of trash bags when it came to showers. I wish I had know about the no wash shampoo. Some areas could not get wet, and that is when the trash bags came it handy. My firsts suggestion is don’t let the pain get ahead before the pills have a chance to work. Pain pills can take a while. Believe it or not, you all will laugh about things later on!!!!

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