Hello folks! I haven't had surgery yet and am just in the contemplative, how-would- I-make- it -work phase of the journey. Here is my question: if we can't keep Water with us then how do people who have had the surgery get their water in on the job? Thoughts?

Thanks,

Kat

Bathroom breaks?

Haha. That's a lot of bathroom breaks

My surgeon gives us a written letter explaining it is a medical necessity,

How about drinking some water before you clock in at work, some on each of your breaks, more on the drive / ride home, and then finish up your quota at night ? Just a thought.

It just seems like that won't amount to enough water. At the moment I make it work by drinking 8 oz at a time but won't be able to after surgery. Keep in mind that I work 11 hour shifts. But that is a good idea to get a letter from doctor! Thanks!

At my hospital you can have drinks at the station if they are closed, or have lids.

I work at a hospital and bring my big 52 ounce jug of water with me and I have never had any issues. The good thing is, Joint Commission doesn't come every day thank god! The longest I have seen them there is a week during the day. I would check on being able to bring a bottle that has a lid.

I have worked on a hospital floor for over 18 years and there has always been "illegal" drinking at the desk. Most places have had designated areas close to the working environment to store drinks and rules about them needing lids. If your work place is more strict I'd get a doctors note stating you need to get your fluids in, take it to your manager and see what suggestions they have. On a side note by 3 months post op from RNY, I was able to drink 8 ounces in 15 minutes without any difficulty. It was just those first few weeks that were difficult to do more than a sip every 2-3 minutes.

Good luck!

I have always used a desk drawer at the Nurses station. My clerks ALWAYS have an empty drawer for purses etc and I just drop my bottle of water in there and pull it out when needed

That is really good to hear that it is possible to drink 8 oz after. I have been worried about dehydration

I work in surgery so I know how difficult it is to get your water in, I try and drink a whole bottle of water on my drive in to work. Then before I scrub in i drink as much as I can and as soon as the case is done I go and drink more I do this all day until I go home and then I try and drink a whole bottle on the way home to. Some days are easier thank others but just do the best you can and eventually you will figure a system that works for you.

Edited September 25, 201510 yr by lovemylukers