Pain

One of the scariest things about being in the hospital can be pain. "What will it feel like to have an IV?" "What kinds of tests will the doctor have to do?" "Will the surgery hurt?" Whenever possible, your doctor will tell you about tests, procedures, and surgery before they happen. You may feel that the less you know about these things, the less you'll have to fear. Actually, the opposite is true. It's scarier NOT knowing what's going to happen to you because you'll most likely imagine the worst. Once you know about the procedures and how they can help you, you may be less afraid. Unfortunately, being aware of what's going to happen won't prevent pain, but the doctors and nurses will try their best to make you comfortable. Your short-term pain is meant to help bring long-term relief from pain and other symptoms.

If you're nervous about surgery (and who isn't), keep in mind that when you wake up; it will all be over. While you're asleep, an experienced team of surgeons, nurses, and an anesthesiologist will be taking care of you. Once you wake up, the worst is over, and you can focus on getting better.

© From Young People and Chronic Illness: True Stories, Help, and Hope by Kelly Huegel.
©1998 Free Spirit Publishing, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.