What to Take to the Hospital?

My surgery date is this coming Friday!!! Does anyone have any suggestions for things they took to the hospital or things they "wished" they'd taken with them? Thanks!

A FAN/ I HAD MINE DONE JULY 9TH AND THAT WAS ALL I NEEDED.MANY PRAYERS WILL BE COMING YOUR WAY.CINDY

Don't overpack! Remember to take a picture ID and your insurance card (and send them home with someone after you are admitted). Lip balm, my own toothbrush and toothpaste, some sanitary pads (just in case). Leave all valuables and jewelry at home. I took a robe, but you can always use another hospital gown open to the front over your gown. Don't take your own gowns - hospital gowns are easy to get in and out of, and if blood or other stuff gets on them, it's no problem. I did not take a fan. I had my WLS at one hospital and there was a thermostat in my room, so I was comfortably cool, and just had my abdominoplasty at another hospital and was also comfortable there. Most hospitals have fans available if you should need one. Comb and brush, and minimal makeup if you feel like putting some on, deoderant, non-slip slippers that you can slide your feet into. Pack something loose and comfortable to wear home. Everything I needed for either surgery fit into a small overnight bag, smaller than a backpack. I packed a Reader's Digest each time and read some of it - helped me get back to sleep a few times. Don't take books or craft stuff - you won't feel like doing much of any of this.All the best on your surgery on Friday!

We also had our own thermstats. It just kept the noise going so you could rest easier. I did take my own gowns and I am very happy I did. I also took a robe so I would feel comfortable in the halls.Where is your surgery? I was at deaconess and loved it. I slept all night long. Cindy

Diana, congrats!!! What exciting news. Are you going to OSU - that's where I went. Other than the regular stuff ... I highly recommend at least one or more of your own pillows. I didn't have any pain other than my back hurting from the hospital bed! The pillows really helped. Good luck! Tandi 246/189/?

HI! This will be a crazy week to be sure! I know you emailed me at home about this and I apologize for not getting back sooner! I would pretty much agree with everyone else. Pillows are great to take (wish I had thought of that!) Just don't forget them! And the basics too. I didn't take my night gowns or robes because I know that you will ooze and seep a little from your wounds, but if you don't mind getting your stuff a little dirty, go for it. Slippers with grippy soles so that you can have good traction when you walk. Leave valuables at home. No rings, earrings, etc. You can't wear them into OR and they tend to dissappear in hospitals. I did not feel like reading at all, barely watched TV. It is hard to read while you are living life better through chemicals! Pain meds make your vision weird anyway. I did think it was a good idea to just leave my bag in the car until after I got to my room. That way, who ever is with you can bring them in later when you get settled in instead of carrying your stuff all over the place while you are in surgery and PACU. You won't need any of that stuff the first night anyway. You will be gorked my friend! If there is anything else you need help with let me know! Val