Transitioning to a rehabilitation facility after surgery is a significant step in recovery, focusing on regaining strength, mobility, and independence. Proper preparation before admission reduces stress, allowing the patient to focus completely on physical healing rather than logistical concerns. Organizing necessary items ensures a smoother start to the intensive rehabilitation schedule and supports both physical comfort and mental well-being.
Essential Administrative and Medical Paperwork
Gathering necessary documentation is the first priority for facility admission to ensure seamless administrative processing and medical oversight. Patients must bring their current insurance cards, photo identification, and any relevant facility pre-authorization forms. A comprehensive, up-to-date list of all current medications, including dosage, frequency, and prescribing physician, is required to prevent drug interactions or lapses in treatment.
It is helpful to include copies of any advance directives, such as a living will or power of attorney for healthcare. A printed contact list featuring the names and phone numbers of emergency contacts, primary care physician, and surgeon should also be readily available. Organizing these documents into a single folder saves time during intake and helps the medical staff understand the patient’s history for planning safe, individualized care.
Clothing and Footwear for Rehabilitation
Selecting the right clothing is important for maximizing participation and safety during physical therapy. Garments should be loose-fitting, non-binding, and made from breathable, flexible fabrics that allow for a full range of motion. Because post-operative restrictions often make raising arms or bending difficult, clothes that open fully, such as button-down shirts or zip-front sweatshirts, are highly functional.
Patients should pack enough comfortable underwear and socks for at least seven to ten days, as laundry services may not be daily. Focus on ease of dressing by avoiding tight waistbands or complicated closures. Elastic-waist pants or shorts are ideal for comfort, accommodating post-surgical swelling, and reducing strain on surgical sites when dressing.
Footwear is the most important item for safety during walking and balance exercises. Shoes must be closed-back, fully covering the heel, and feature non-skid rubber soles to minimize the risk of slipping. Slip-on shoes with adequate support, or those secured with hook-and-loop fasteners, are often easier to manage than traditional lace-up styles. Physical therapists rely on stable footwear to safely execute gait training and weight-bearing exercises.
Personal Hygiene and Adaptive Aids
Maintaining personal hygiene contributes significantly to a patient’s dignity and well-being during recovery. While many facilities provide basic soap and shampoo, patients should bring their preferred brands of toiletries, including toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, and specific skincare products. Specialized items like denture supplies, contact lens solution, or electric razor chargers must also be included if they are part of the daily routine.
Patients who already use adaptive equipment for daily living should bring these tools to maintain independence. This may include a long-handled reacher or grabber, specialized feeding utensils, or a shower scrub brush with an extended handle. Bringing personal aids ensures the patient can continue established self-care routines. Contact the rehabilitation center beforehand to confirm which basic items they supply and which must be packed from home.
Comfort, Communication, and Entertainment
Mental well-being is as important as physical recovery, making comfort and communication items necessary. A mobile phone and charger are essential for staying connected with family and managing external affairs. Tablets, e-readers, or books provide entertainment and distraction during downtime, helping to manage pain perception and reduce feelings of isolation.
Small personal items that promote comfort, such as a favorite blanket, a non-electric heating pad, or a personal pillow, can make the unfamiliar environment feel more like home. All electronic devices and personal comfort items should be clearly labeled with the patient’s name to prevent loss. It is recommended to leave all high-value items, including expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash, and non-essential credit cards, secured at home before admission.