What to Bring (and What Not to Bring) to the Hospital

Senior Safety  |  April 2, 2024

Proper packing can enhance the enjoyment of vacations. Similarly, packing the right items for a hospital stay, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, can make the experience smoother and less stressful.

Here is a list of essential items to pack for the hospital, as well as things that can make the stay more comfortable, and items that are best left at home.

Essential Items and Information

Make sure to bring important medical documents and healthcare information, as they serve as your or your loved one’s passport to the hospital. Remember to pack:

1. Photo ID

2. Insurance and Medicare cards, along with any required documentation from insurers

3. A list of all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, along with their dosages. However, hospitals usually request that you only bring the medications requested by the physician.

4. Copies of advance healthcare directives, such as durable power of attorney for healthcare and living will

5. A personal health record containing information about allergies, health conditions, immunization records, and recent test or exam reports

6. Reports given to you by your physician to bring to the hospital

7. A list of contact numbers for family and friends who may need to be reached

To ensure that none of the important paperwork and information gets misplaced, keep everything together in one folder.

For Your Comfort

While hospitals provide gowns and toiletries, it’s recommended to bring your own pyjamas, bathrobe, cardigan sweater, non-slip socks or slippers, comb, brush, lotions, toothbrush and toothpaste, and lip balm. Avoid using perfumes or strongly scented products. Remember, short sleeves are best for accommodating intravenous lines.

Check the hospital’s website beforehand to know what items are allowed.

Other Essentials

Consider bringing protective containers for eyeglasses or dentures when not in use. Books, magazines, and crossword puzzles can help pass the time. Keep paper and pen handy for jotting down notes and questions for doctors or nurses. It’s also a good idea to have some cash for newspapers, magazines, and other items from the gift shop or vending machines.

You can bring photos or small personal items, but keep in mind that space is limited. Lastly, don’t forget to pack clothing to wear home upon discharge.

What Not to Pack

It’s important to know what items to leave at home when going to the hospital. Hospitals are not responsible for personal belongings, so it’s best to avoid bringing valuables. Here are some specific things to exclude from your packing list:

1. Cell phones: These are generally not allowed in patient care areas as they can interfere with medical equipment.

2. Tobacco products: Smoking is prohibited in healthcare facilities, so leave these behind.

3. Credit cards, chequebooks, large amounts of cash, jewellery, and high-end portable music players: These items can easily be stolen in a busy hospital environment.

4. Electronic items: Check the hospital’s policy before bringing any electronic devices. Generally, items that need to be plugged in are not allowed due to safety standards. If you do bring a portable electronic device, make sure someone trustworthy takes care of it when the patient is sleeping or away from the room.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a hassle-free hospital stay.

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