Post-mastectomy d/c?

Specialties Oncology

Published

Can someone tell me what is the normal procedure for discharging pts who were in the hospital for a mastectomy? I have a friend who bascially just had out-pt breast ca surgery. I was shocked, amazed, and outraged. Her procedure was Wednesday and she's not doing well at home now at all. Horrible pain, bad reaction to vicodin...I am appalled that mastectomies are done on an outpt basis. I thought this had recently been made illegal.

Her surgery was very extensive -- one breast and the associated under-arm lymph nodes. Actually, she said that one HALF her breast was removed, along with the lymph nodes. Sorry to be SO ignorant (I am a student nurse and know nothing about onc yet), but I've never heard of them taking half a breast and all the lymph nodes -- wouldn't they have taken the whole breast to be safe? I really am sorry to be so stupid, but I need some education, here, because I don't know what to say to her to make her feel better. She's not getting answers she can understand from her docs. Maybe she could if she had been able to actually STAY in the hospital? Would appreciate any education any onc nurse could spare. Sorry, again, for my ignorance. I'm kind of embarrassed, but worried about my friend. Thanks.

Specializes in oncology.

Tell your friend that she needs to demand that the doctors explain things to her. and no stayin gin the hospital would not have been any better. I have taken care of many mastectomy pts who go home eith er that day or at the latest the next AM. Just listen to her and continue being a good friend.

Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

I believe there is a bill pending in the senate which would make it illegal to do 'drive-through' mastectomies. Everyone is different. My friend had a mastectomy (she was in her late 60's) and wanted to go home the next morning. I had one when I was 34...had 2 babies at home and was thankful for the 3 days I spent in the hospital. When your friend feels better, have her contact Reach to Recovery...volunteers who will go to her house and be a support system.

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