What to pack...

Hi Everyone,

I hope everyone had a nice holiday... I was wondering if anyone could help me... I am going in for my RNY on January 19th.. WWOOOHHHHOOOOOOOOO I do not know what to pack for my stay in the hospital. I will be in Mon thru Thursday. Any suggestions?

Thanks

After Surgery:
Must haves:
Toothbrush/paste
Comb
Chapstick
Slippers/slippersocks
Optionals:
iPod or other MP3 player
Book or magazines

For the Ride home:
PILLOW
Loose waistband clothes--elastic!
Water bottle to sip sip sip!

My personal list -
ponytail holders, reading material, crossword puzzles, sudoku, pj bottoms (easier than putting on a robe over the iv, etc.), lip balm, wipes, laptop

I was only in for about 24 hours, so this might change if I had to spend more than one night. I also had my DH spend the night with me.  This was more important than anything I could have packed.  He was a perfect caretaker. 

These were my must-haves:
Lip balm, face soap, toothbrush/toothpaste, robe and slippers.

I brought a great bunch of things others had suggested, and didn't use any of them.  I  personally wouldn't dare bring anything of value like a laptop or iPod because when I was awake, I was walking or peeing.  I didn't want to worry about my stuff when I was asleep or out of my room walking.   I kept myself busy sleeping the day of surgery but I was off the pain meds by that night.  The next morning I was drinking, peeing and walking so I could go "prove" I was ready to go home.  I never even turned on the TV in my room. 

The more you take, the more you have to carry to the car, take home, and then put away.

I went home in the same clothes that I wore to the hospital, only with a fresh pair of underwear.  I do agree that a pillow for the car ride would be helpful, if you have any distance to travel. 

I have read that a lot of women start their periods while in the hospital, so I would recommend taking your own personal hygiene products.  I was lucky, and didn't need these, either. 

One thing I did find helpful for going home--I brought the little plastic one ounce cups and the 6 ounce cups that came on my meal tray(s).  I still use them to monitor my liquid intake. 

I brought pjs, but didnt use them b/c I stayed in the hospital gown the whole time. I brought books but had no desire to read them.

I did bring loose fitting clothes and had my ride bring up a pillow for the ride home.

I heard that some people recommend ear plugs b/c hospitals are so noisy.

Good Luck!!

I would have been so uncomfortable if I didn't have my PJ's, I was out of that nasty hospital gown as soon as I was alowed up.  The other super must have for me was Q-tips.  Good Luck and stay well.

extra undies...for the stuff that comes out of your tush..

i took really loose clothes (sweats and loose shirt) to wear in the hospital and car ride home.  i took extra clothes which came in handy bc i didnt bring extra undies.  i brought shampoo and soap for the shower.  i brought books, and a lap top but didnt use any of them.  i mainly slept and watch tv.

I packed a comfortable Pj shirt, undies, and hairties..my hospital provided..little pillow, chapstick..toothbrush..toothpaste...earplugs...hairbrush...I lucked out!  they give you socks too and a robe to walk the halls with..unless you want your own robe...but yeah I wish i had brought my own pillow from home...I would have been a little more comfortable.  Good luck!

Thank you all for your suggestions!

Earplugs
Small electric fan for white noise
Toothbrush and personal hygiene items
Pillow
Rubber bottomed socks
Robe