When considering what to take to the hospital, consider the following concepts. Take what is needed:

• To provide information about your health insurance and prove financial capability if necessary
• To make sure your wishes are known in the event you become unable to communicate for yourself
• To make your hospital stay as pleasant as possible.
• To only take clothing and other items which can be easily disinfected when you leave the hospital.
• Whatever is necessary to keep you healthy when not in the hospital.

With these objectives in mind, consider taking:

Documentation

• Health insurance card.
• If you donated blood, a certificate showing you donated your own blood for use during surgery.
• Three copies of a list of medications. Include over-the-counter drugs as well as prescription drugs.  We supply a helpful form that is easy to keep to date. Click here. (NOTE: Be sure to always carry an up-to-date copy of the List with you in case of emergency).
• Three copies of your Advance Directives. If you do not have an advance directive such as a Health Care Power Of Attorney or a Living Will, click here. Everyone should have such documents to make wishes known "just in case."  "Just in case" can happen anywhere, including in a hospital. (Also consider creating an Advance Directive for Mental Health.) NOTE: A Health Care Power of Attorney also allows someone in to visit you that may ordinarlly be kept out by the hospital's rules).

Medical

• A supply of the drugs you normally take. 
  • The hospital may insist on supplying the drugs, but at least you'll have yours handy in case there's a delay or a slip up.
  • Do not take any drugs in hospital without checking with the medical staff first. They may interfere with treatments or drugs you receive in hospital

Stuff to make you feel comfortable

• Comfortable slippers or other foot covering.
• Comfortable pajamas or a night gown - preferably without metal zippers or snaps (in case you need diagnostic tests such as an MRI). 
  • Choose clothing that will not press on an area that will be treated or cause you undue strain as you dress.
  • Take shirts with easy sleeves that can accommodate an IV line.
  • Consider adding something personal that will help you feel better in the hospital.
• If you will need to keep your body as available to helpers as it would be in a hospital gown, consider purchasing a more stylish covering, such as those available at www.healingthreads.com
• Personal items with which to decorate your room to make it feel more home-like, such as photographs.
• A means with which to keep contact at work and/or with friends and family. 
  • If you take an expensive item to a hospital, also consider how to keep it safe when not in use.
• A pad or electronic means of keeping track of all services and treatments you receive while in the hospital for use when it's time to check the hospital bill or insurance reimbursement. (Yes, it is important to keep track of services and treatments so you can check your hospital bill. Studies show a very large percentage of hospital bills are incorrect, usually in the hospital's favor. For more information, click here.
• Material with which to keep your mind engaged.
• If you prefer your own toiletries, take them.
  • Avoid scented products. They may affect a roommate.
• Men: avoid plug-in razors. The local fire code or nearby use of oxygen may prohibit use. Battery operated razors are okay, as are regular razors.
• Eye and ear covering for sleep because hospitals can be very noisy. If it helps, consider bringing a device that creates white noise.
• If music will help you relax, bring a player with a headset so you do not disturb a roommate.
• Think about taking warm socks. 
• A small amount of cash in case you have to pay out-of-pocket for such items as newspapers.
• Both men and women should consider packing a pair of baggy boxer shorts for the times when you are told to "take everything off and put on this gown with the opening in the back."

Do not take

• Good jewelry
• Scented toiletries in case you feel nausea at some time or in case your roommate does. In addition, it prevents the after effect that you associate the scent with the hospital.
• Wallets, purses, substantial amounts of money and credit cards.

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