When a Reddit user with stage 4 colorectal cancer asked what he could do to make his upcoming hospital stay better, commenters shared some obvious — and not so obvious — tips.
“Expect a week in the hospital, unless infection is a factor,” MrAngryBear wrote on the r/Cancer subreddit. “So what are some of your tried-and-true tricks to make your hospital stay easier?”
The subreddit, which has been described as “a place for people with cancer and caregivers to come together and support each other,” has been inundated with advice.
“Three things I can never live without: hand lotion, dental floss, back scratcher,” read the top comment from attorneyworkproduct. They added that most of their cancer treatment took place during Covid when visitors were not allowed, so they had to plan ahead for what they might need.
It turns out that dental floss and back scratchers were at the top of the list for many. As another Redditor advised, “Think about what would annoy you the most if you DID NOT have it; dental floss (food in your teeth will drive you crazy), nail snacks (a nasty broken nail will drive you crazy too), back scratcher, eye drops. I also take a small rechargeable hand fan because I can’t stand it when it’s too hot.”
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Dental floss is essential in the hospital, say Redditors.
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“Oh, I couldn’t agree more about the back comb!” Redditor BitsiBones chimed in. “I thought I was the only person in the world who carries a back comb to the hospital”
One commenter advised that you shouldn’t just bring a phone charger, but “the longest phone charger possible. We’re taking all your good IV pump caps and stuff, sorry!”
Ideal length for a phone charger cable: “(10+ feet) just in case.”
Be sure to bring “something to hold your phone so it doesn’t fall off the bed,” said another user.
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Many also suggested going to a hospital with fully equipped entertainment options. “Due to iPads with pre-downloaded movies, hospital Wi-Fi is bad,” advised driftingthroughtime, who added that you should bring “AirPods/headphones to watch said movies without disturbing my roommate.”
And if you’re bringing clothes from home, make sure you have “pajamas that fasten in the front to allow nurses easy access.”
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Bring an iPad preloaded with movies and series, Redditors advise.
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Shannen Doherty was worried that the radiation might “destroy something” and change her personality
Group members also had advice for recovery. While it might be tempting to just lie in bed, they said, “Definitely move around as much as possible after surgery.”
“Walk as much as you can,” added another. “Outside if it’s nice where you are.”
Another said, “I walked on the floor,” which reminded them of another important tip: bring a robe.
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Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education