PILLOWS AND WARMTH

Bring your own soft pillow to the hospital, and don’t hesitate to ask for extra pillows to help you get as comfortable as possible. Many people find that lying on a couple of pillows or using a memory-foam neck pillow adds extra softness, especially after surgery. If you feel cold, ask for a warm blanket. You’ll be wearing compression socks after surgery, and bed socks over the top can help keep your feet warm. For the first few days after surgery, you will likely have intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) “boots” to help prevent blood clots.

ENTERTAINMENT

• Take a book to read, but you might not feel like reading.
• Compile a list of light shows to watch.
• Put together a playlist that you can focus on if you need calming, such as gentle piano music.
• Take a multiport USB plug and extra-long charging cables for your devices.
• Try to keep everything within easy reach.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY

You may find that you don’t feel up to having visitors or taking calls while you’re in the hospital. It can help to gently set expectations beforehand by letting friends and family know you might be resting and may not be available. Share updates only when you feel up to it—people will understand.

NOISE AND LIGHT

Hospitals can be noisy places. Take noise-cancelling headphones or noise masking earplugs. Both earplugs and an eye mask can be helpful.  A product like Ozlo Sleepbuds can help block out noise. https://ozlosleep.au/products/sleepbuds

ENTERTAINMENT

Often, the hospitals don’t have icepacks, but they do have an ice machine. Look at taking an old-fashioned ice pack that can be filled with crushed ice. Some rooms have their own fridge and a small freezer.

Ask in advance if this is available to you.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Many people travel long distances for CSF leak treatment in Australia, so planning ahead can make the trip easier. When travelling, lie down whenever possible and bring a supportive pillow. If flying, contact the airline in advance to request mobility assistance and ask if you can remain reclined during the flight. Consider arranging a comfortable transfer service at the airport and fully recline the passenger seat during car travel. After surgery, requesting a Silver Service taxi can provide a smoother ride. Preparing these arrangements ahead of time can make your journey far more comfortable and stress-free. Search for Accessibility, Medical and Inclusion with Qantas or Hidden disability assistance with Virgin.

WHAT TO WEAR

• Easy to put on button-up pyjamas.
• A cardigan or a dressing gown provides warmth.
• Slippers or Ugg-style boots.
• Comfortable clothes to leave the hospital.

IDEAS FOR YOUR HOSPITAL BAG

• Dry shampoo 
• face wipes, 
• lip balm, moisturiser, throat lozenges, snacks, calming essential oils, panty-liners, 
• water bottle (easier to drink from when lying down)

BLOOD PATCH AFTERCARE

Visit our UK charity friends for more information: https://csfleak.uk/resource/aftercare