If the wound dressing gets wet then you should change it, not dry it. Wet dressings become sources of infection, so should always be swapped out.
When I had the op on my neck, I was told not to bath or shower until the wound was sealed and the dressing was off. So it was sink washes only, and babywipes, until then. Are you sure you're supposed to be showering at the moment if your wound is still dressed?
If you've explicitly been told you can shower, then clingfilm is a good one to try wrapping around your wound. Alternatively, take the shower head down and direct the water at your body to ensure it runs away from the wound.
Lass
Xx
I have no medical training, everything I post is an opinion or educated guess. It is not medical advice.
Thanks. I was told I could shower!! I'm seeing the nurse this afternoon for the dressing to be changed. I've even been told I can have a bath. Not trying that yet as not sure I'd be able to get up after!!!
Back to washing in the basin for me then!! The dressings are waterproof I was told.
I was told my dressings were waterproof too, I put cling film over mine and taped it on to my skin. I then used the shower hand held to try and avoid soaking it. I also had spare dressings in case it got wet. I hope you get on ok.
I had pico dressing for a week, then full dressing for a week, then dressing at each end of the wound, and left uncovered in the middle.
The uncovered part began to bleed very slightly and when I changed the dressings there was some oozing. I went back to the doctors, no nurse appointment available. Doctor checked, said wound is dry but very red. There was nothing to swab but she prescribed 7 days antibiotics in case.
The sink might be the best option then lol, it took six weeks for my wound to heal, I was so happy when I could shower normally again, I hope yours seals over soon.
I had a bath after 2 days post operation, but I had keyhole surgery. I could get in OK, but found the best way to get out of the bath was to turn over onto my hands and knees, kneel up, then stand!!! I was OK either kneeling or standing straight. It was bending that got me!!! It was lovely to be in a bath again, and that way you could perhaps not touch the dressing as long as you don't splash! The first couple of times I told husband to stand by, but I didn't need him!! Good luck, xxx
