Preparing proactively for a planned surgery helps alleviate anxiety and streamlines the hospital admission process. Organizing necessary documents and comfort items in advance allows you to focus on the upcoming procedure and recovery. Having a checklist ensures nothing important is forgotten, smoothing the transition into and out of the care facility.
Essential Administrative Documents
A dedicated folder containing necessary administrative documents is required for registration and medical compliance. Pack a current government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm your identity upon arrival. Bring all insurance cards, including primary and secondary coverage, as staff will need to copy this information for billing purposes.
A complete, printed list of all current medications is also necessary, including dosages and frequency for prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements. This detailed list is crucial for the surgical team to prevent potential drug interactions with anesthesia or post-operative pain management. If you have advance directive forms, such as a Living Will or Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare, bring a copy to ensure your wishes are documented and followed. Organizing these papers in a single, accessible location will prevent delays in your pre-operative preparation.
Personal Comfort and Overnight Stay Items
Packing items that promote physical and emotional comfort is valuable, especially for an overnight or extended stay. Bring a pair of non-slip socks or slippers with rubber soles for safely walking around the room, as the hospital environment can be cold. Pack comfortable, loose-fitting pajamas or clothes, preferably with buttons or zippers, which are easier to manage if you have limited mobility or an incision site.
Basic, unscented toiletries, like a toothbrush, mild toothpaste, and deodorant, help maintain a sense of personal routine. If you use corrective lenses or hearing aids, pack the corresponding cases to protect these devices when you are in the operating room or sleeping. A mobile phone and a charger with an extra-long cord are recommended for communication and entertainment, since electrical outlets are often far from the bed. A book, tablet, or magazine can provide a welcome distraction during periods of waiting or rest.
Logistics for Discharge and Recovery
Planning the logistics for your departure is important, as you will be recovering from surgery. Securely arranging transportation home is a mandatory requirement for discharge. Many hospitals prohibit patients from using taxis or rideshare services unless a responsible adult accompanies them.
The individual driving you home must be pre-arranged and confirmed with the nursing staff, as you cannot drive yourself due to the effects of anesthesia and pain medication. Bring a set of very loose, comfortable clothes to wear home, such as sweatpants or garments with elastic waistbands, which will not press against any surgical site. Slip-on shoes are preferable to lace-up footwear, as bending over to tie shoes can be difficult following certain procedures.
Having a small amount of cash can be useful for minor needs, like parking fees for your ride or a quick snack for your caregiver. Finally, ensure that necessary recovery supplies, such as prescribed pain medication, a thermometer, or ice packs, are already set up and accessible in your home environment.
Items to Avoid Bringing
To ensure your belongings remain secure and comply with facility policies, leave certain items at home. Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, including wedding rings, large amounts of cash, or unnecessary credit cards. Hospitals are generally not responsible for the loss or theft of personal items, and leaving valuables behind significantly reduces this risk.
Highly complicated or large electronic devices, such as laptops or gaming consoles, should also be avoided. While a phone and tablet are acceptable for communication and simple entertainment, the risk of damage or loss to expensive electronics is too high. Strong perfumes or heavily scented lotions should also be left at home, as these can be irritating to other patients and staff with sensitivities or allergies.