What should I take to the hospital?

May 10, 2021

Hospital Packing List

Photo ID and insurance card
Eyeglasses or contacts
Hearing aid (along with extra batteries)
Dentures and denture case
Cell phone and charger or pre-paid phone card
Any specific toiletries you must have (e.g. lip balm or body lotion)
Chewing gum (this is often used in post-operative recovery protocols).
Comfort items (e.g. ear plugs, sleep mask, comfy pajamas, robe, slippers, clean underwear and socks)
Your own pillow and/or distinctive pillow case (so it doesn’t get mistaken for hospital linens)
A music player or headphones for your phone to listen to relaxation messages or calming music (or to simply drown out noise).
One or two small photos of loved ones, pets or a favorite vacation spot
A bottle of hand sanitizer to keep by your bedside table for any visitors and for yourself as it may be hard to get out of bed at first
A small amount of money for vending machines or gift shop – love most cash and credit cards at home
Notebook and pen to take notes when speaking with a doctor and to write the questions that come up in their absence

Entertainment/Relaxation

Reading/Listening material (magazines, puzzle books, short stories, books, Audible app, Podcasts, etc.)
Streaming services lined up (Hulu, Netflix, etc.)
List of must watch shows and documentaries
Journal to record your recovery story

Personal Items