Going into hospital: what to bring
What do I need to bring with me?
In the first couple of days you will be wearing a hospital gown but after this you will need night clothes then loose-fitting normal clothes once you are able to move independently. It is recommended that you only take the essentials when you are first admitted, then get a friend or relative to bring in a second ‘top-up’ bag after a few days.
Some suggestions for what to pack:
Initial bag for first few days:
- Basic wash bag to include toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush/comb, flannel, soap, shaver/razor, lip salve (lips are often dry after surgery).
- Loose-fitting slippers (your feet can swell after an operation) with grips on the bottom or thick socks with grips on bottom
- Reading glasses
- Mobile phone and charger
- Books/magazines/pens
- Medication that you normally take
Second top-up bag:
- Extended wash bag to include shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, make-up
- Night clothes, dressing gown, loose-fitting day clothes
- Clean underwear
- Small hand towel
- Sanitary towels or tampons
- Fruit squashes and small snacks such as biscuits, chocolate, sweets, non-refrigerated deserts (jellies, rice puddings)
- Small amount of money for newspapers/snacks
- Address book and/or important phone numbers
- Antibacterial hand gel or wipes
More information to help you prepare for surgery:
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Information Product No. PCA0012 v.1 pgs 20 -21 | Published: 26/01/2013 | Last Updated: 05/03/2015 | Next Review Due: 26/01/2016