When I was being prepped for my angiogram, I was told to get completely undressed, put on the provided gown and disposable panties, and lie back on the bed.
A female heart ultrasound technician came in and began the test. As she lifted my breast to position the probe, we talked about how awkward and embarrassing the situation felt. I told her I was at least grateful she was a woman. I mentioned it would be nice if the hospital provided a simple mesh wrap to cover the breast during the ultrasound—and for the entire time a patient is being prepped. She agreed and said she would prefer that too, so she wouldn't have to lift women's breasts during the procedure. Then she looked at me and said, “Invent that!”
So I did.
Later, while being prepped for surgery, four young male staff members in their twenties came in to attach the ECG leads. They looked and reached under my gown, unavoidably brushing my breasts as they placed the leads. I had received no warning that this was about to happen. I felt embarrassed, exposed, and not entirely safe. Those same young men were later in the operating room. I realized that once my gown was removed, only the tiny disposable panties would remain—and that my breasts would be fully exposed to young male strangers during induction of anesthesia.
Most people assume that during surgery, only the surgical site is exposed. That is not the case. A light mesh wrap around the breasts that could stay in place until the patient is fully anesthetized—and be easily re-closed before transfer to recovery—would give many women a greater sense of dignity and safety during a vulnerable time.
The ModestyWrap™ is designed to do exactly that: preserve privacy and dignity from preparation through recovery, without interfering with medical care.
~ Supporting dignity throughout care ~