Planning your stay
When you have a scheduled surgery, childbirth, or an inpatient procedure, it’s important to bring what you need to be comfortable while keeping to the basics.
What to pack
You should take items that can help you sleep comfortably, maintain your daily hygiene, provide you with greater privacy, and keep you healthy. If you need to bring something of value, such as a laptop for work, ask if there is a secure place to store your belongings.
You also want to consider bringing along something to entertain yourself and maybe snacks or drinks that your treatment or procedure allows.
Be sure to include the following:
- Night clothes (avoid snaps and long gowns), a bathrobe, and sturdy non-skid slippers or shoes
- Comfortable clothes to wear home
- Personal toiletry items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, comb or brush, tampons, sanitary pads, or denture cream
- Cell phone charger
- A list of all medications you take, including the dose, time of day, and reason for the medication
- Details of illnesses, surgeries, and any allergies to medicines, foods, or environment
- Your health insurance or health plan card
- A list of the names and telephone numbers of family or friends to call if needed
- Your driver's license if you need to use notary services
Additional items to bring if you’re having a baby
- An infant car seat
- Name of baby's doctor or clinic
- Camera
- Birth plan, if you have one
- Newborn going home outfit
- Nursing bra, if you will be nursing
- Breast pads
- Baby bag
- Your Social Security card or driver license (for birth records identification)