Bariatric Surgery Hospital Stay – What to Pack & What to Leave Behind
January 17, 2024Your surgery date is approaching, which means you're ready to prep for your hospital stay! Preparing for a hospital stay after bariatric surgery can be overwhelming. You might be asking yourself what you should pack and what you should leave behind. Let's tackle that with a list!
What to Pack
Essentials
Any good list of what to pack for your hospital stay starts off with making sure you have the essential items you know for sure you are going to need.
- Government issued photo ID
- Health insurance & prescription plan cards
- Current list of medications & allergies
- Hearing aids, glasses, contacts
- C-Pap machine or inhaler (if you use one)
Clothing
Ensure your time in the hospital is as comfortable and cozy as possible. You will thank yourself for doing so later!
- Loose clothing- for the ride home or walk around the hallways (Sweat pants, shorts, loose fitting t-shirt or dress)
- Comfortable non- restrictive underwear, non-wired bras, socks
- Bath robe, slippers with non-slip soles, your favorite PJ's
- Slip on shoes
Toiletries
Although hospitals will provide you with some of the basics, they do not provide all, and you may prefer to bring some of your favorite personal items.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash
- Hairbrush or comb, hair ties
- Makeup
- Lip balm
- Body wash
- Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant
- Wet Wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Shaver
Entertainment
No need for your hospital stay to be boring! You will want to stay connected with family and friends and have your entertainment of choice available. Whether to watch movies, play games, or tune into your favorite social media platforms-you will want technology at the ready.
- iPad or similar tablet
- Phone
- Reading material
- Headphones
- Charging cables
- Long extension cord
You Just Might Want...
While at the hospital, you can certainly get by without a few of conveniences and comforts of home. But, you don't have to!
- Ear Plugs (hospitals are noisy!)
- Eye Mask (for those who are light-sensitive)
- Water Bottle (mostly for the ride home)
- A soft pillow for when you cough or use the seatbelt on the way home
- A soft, comforting blanket from home
What to Leave Behind
When packing for your bariatric surgery hospital stay, you should also be mindful of what to leave behind. Hospitals are busy, there will be a lot of in and out activity.
Please be aware that hospitals have policies in place. Make sure to check with your specific hospital to be sure you're following their guidelines. In general, it is a good rule of thumb to avoid....
- Expensive valuables, i.e., jewelry & watches
- Large sums of cash
- Large bags and luggage
- Unnecessary clothing
- Large electronic devices
- Food, drinks, protein powder / shakes
- Your medications (all of the meds you take will be administered by the medical team)
- Perfume/Cologne- (Many hospitals request that guests use scent-free products as strong smells may cause breathing issues for other patients or they may be allergic to them)
It's Your Journey-Embrace It!
While a stay at the hospital is not exactly a destination you want at the top of your bucket list, you can make it more comfortable and cozy by being prepared. Keep a positive mindset and stay focused on your goals.
Congratulations on taking the steps towards living a healthier and happier lifestyle. Wishing you all the best as you embark on your exciting new journey to weight loss success!
