What should I pack for the hospital stay?

Hi All,

I am planning what i need to bring to the hospital. Is there anything I should be thinking of that is beyond the usual clothes/pillow/hygiene stuff/book? Your suggestions are appreciated. Julie

The two most invaluable things that I took were Chapstick and baby wipes in terms of hygiene items. Charger for your phone if you're taking it, and ear plugs/sleep mask if you're sensitive to light/noise while you're sleeping.

Thank you!!!!

Thanks Tanya :)

I couldn't have made it without my electronics for watching Netflix, etc. I found it really helped to keep my brain distracted because I was in a noisy area and couldn't sleep.

Also, Biotene dry mouth spray helped so much; my mouth was constantly dry, no matter how much sipping I did.

Thanks Kathy - never heard of that spray. I will be going to the pharmacy Tuesday so will look for it.

You're welcome. I'd never heard of it before either; someone on Youtube mentioned it. I cleared it with my surgeon before using it, and it helped a lot.

I haven't had surgery yet, but have been compiling a list of things that other people were saying were essential for their hospital stays.

pjs
shampoo, body wash,
brush
non slip slippers,
my iPad/phone, cords for electronics,
ear plugs (often its loud)

fan (for white noise)
change of clothes to go home.
Lip balm
Heating pad
Extension cords (the outlets may be be far away)
Biotene mouth spray/gel
Nice smelling hand soap (pump)
Socks
3 premier shakes (apparently the protein shakes in the hospital are gross)

and a tip - order tv service (if you want it) before surgery so it is ready for you when you get to your room.

Hope that helps!

Thank you so much!!

I think most hospitals have you on clear fluids while you are in, not on the shakes. Perhaps yours is different?

Also, my room didn't have a shower (and you're not allowed to shower for the first few days post op) so you may want to reconsider shampoo and body wash. :)