Preparing for a planned hospital admission, such as a scheduled procedure or non-emergency stay, involves administrative tasks and personal packing. A well-organized approach to packing necessary items can improve your comfort during the stay. This checklist focuses on practical, specific items to ensure a smoother transition into the medical environment.
Required Administrative and Medical Documentation
You must bring a current government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm your identity. Your health insurance card is also necessary, as it contains policy numbers and contact information required for billing. It is helpful to keep all administrative documents organized in a clear folder to hand to the admitting staff quickly.
A separate, concise list of your current medications is required. This list must detail the drug name, exact dosage, and frequency of administration for both prescription and over-the-counter items. This ensures the medical team has an accurate baseline for medication reconciliation during your stay.
You should also bring a list of all known allergies, including the specific reaction experienced, to prevent adverse drug events. If you have prepared legal documents like an advance directive, a living will, or a power of attorney for healthcare, bring a copy. Finally, a printed contact list with the full names and phone numbers of emergency contacts and your primary care physician should be readily available.
Personal Comfort and Self-Care Essentials
Packing personal items can make a clinical room feel more comfortable, as hospital-provided items are often generic and limited. Pack travel-sized versions of your preferred mild soap, shampoo, and toothbrush with toothpaste. Since hospital air can be dry, a small, unscented moisturizer and lip balm are recommended to prevent skin irritation.
While the hospital provides gowns, bringing your own comfortable, loose-fitting pajamas or a robe can offer a greater sense of privacy. These items should be easy to put on and take off, preferably with a button-up front if you anticipate limited mobility. Non-slip socks or slippers with rubberized treads are important to pack, as they help prevent falls on potentially slick hospital floors.
For entertainment and connection, a charger with a cord that is at least six to ten feet long is necessary. This allows you to use your phone or tablet while remaining in the bed, often far from the wall outlet. Books, an e-reader, or a tablet preloaded with movies offer a welcome distraction.
Noise-canceling headphones or simple earplugs and an eye mask can significantly improve sleep quality by reducing the constant noise and ambient light. Bringing a small personal comfort aid, such as a favorite pillow or a small, familiar blanket, can make a difference in your ability to rest. Always confirm the hospital’s policy on personal bedding first.
Managing Valuables and Departure Preparation
When packing for your stay, leave anything irreplaceable at home, including expensive jewelry and large amounts of cash. Hospitals are typically not responsible for lost or stolen personal property, even if small lockers are provided. It is best to only bring a small amount of cash for minor purchases from a vending machine or gift shop.
A practical packing strategy involves using two separate bags. Use one small carry-on for your immediate needs like documentation, toiletries, and entertainment. Use a larger bag containing your going-home outfit and any items not needed right away.
Your clothing for discharge should be loose and comfortable, allowing for potential swelling or surgical incisions. Transportation arrangements for your departure must be confirmed before your admission, ensuring a reliable person is available to pick you up.
Before leaving, your medical team will provide detailed discharge instructions covering post-hospital care, follow-up appointments, and a list of new or adjusted prescriptions. You should clarify the process for obtaining any new prescriptions, whether they will be sent directly to a pharmacy or if you will need to fill them after leaving. Reviewing the discharge paperwork with a family member or caregiver is advisable to ensure all instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and medication schedules are completely understood.