Recovery Room

The usual rule is no one apart from patients and staff are allowed in recovery (or pre-op either) BUT if you feel you need to have someone with you talk to your doctors (anaesthetist) about it. They can OK it. My mum suffers fro, panic attacks and the disorder is exacerbated by anaesthetic drugs. I go with her into pre-op on the pretext that without her glasses she won't be able to verify her identity or sign her consent forms (and I hold her 'power of attorney' so I can sin for her). She always asks that I be called to recovery as soon as she is out of surgery. When the staff expresses reluctance, she explains that she'll come up in a panic and is likely to tear out drips and drains. I also smile sweetly and say, "I think you'll find her easier to manage if I am there." The usual answer is, "I don't think it will be possible." and I just say "I'll be in the hospital if you need me. You have my mobile number." I always get the call.
cheers

My mom and boyfriend were allowed back in pre op. That, I guess, depends on hospital. My hospital had separate" rooms" for patients.

My DH was allowed in pre op. In recovery, no one was allowed, but that was okay, as I was not there for very long.

when my 11yr old son had surgery at a different hospital, they let me in recovery.

My Husband was not allowed in the recovery room and he got to see me when I was taken to the room. They had to wait for a room so I was in recovery longer and very awake when I was taken to the room. All I remember about the recovery room is being thirsty and asking anyone who got near for water - they gave me ice. That was ok.

The last thing I remember is the nurse saying they were going to wheel me into surgery. I said Okay, told my husband goodbye-- and the next things I knew it was hours later and I was in my room, dh trying valiantly to stay awake-- it was after midnight. Rolled into surgery about 5.

Nobody in recovery room- I wasn't there too long though- I "came to" pretty quickly and was alert and eating ice chips pretty fast- so they got me up to a room and my hubby and dad got there right after me!

Amy
LAVH- 1/31/2011

Call the hospital and see if they have a pre-op "what should I expect" info packet. The day I met with my doctors to discuss my upcoming procedure, they made sure I had that, so I know that my partner will not be with me in the recovery room, but will be in my room afterwards. I know what I should bring, etc -- it helps the nerves a little. My procedure is 3/24/11 -- wish me luck!