10 Items You Should Take to the Hospital When
Preparing for Surgery

With your upcoming surgery date looming you are likely to be experiencing some anxiety over the surgery, your impending recovery, and even the post-surgery hospital stay itself.  That is perfectly normal. 

Of course, you will want to do anything you can in preparation that will secure you a more successful, less stressful recovery.  While you would probably prefer to recover at home in your bed, watching your TV, and eating food out of your own frig, sometimes, that is just not possible.  Sometimes it is in the best interest of your health and recovery to stay in the hospital for a few days or even weeks after surgery. 

So, what can you do in preparation for surgery to make your recovery room as comfortable as your own bedroom?  Below are 10 items that you can, and even should, take to the hospital with you when you go in for your surgery to make your stay a little more comfortable and a lot easier.

1. A pen and notepad so you can take notes.

2. A book or puzzle book such as crosswords or word finds.

3. Your address book or at least a list of phone numbers of friends, etc.

4. A family photo to focus to set on your bedside table.

5. Ear plugs and an eye mask to block out noise and light to help you rest undisturbed.

6. Non-skid slippers or socks to keep your feet warm and prevent falls.

7. Toiletries such as lotion, deodorant, and toothpaste and toothbrush.

8. Essential items that you typically use such as contact lens case, solution, and glasses.

9. Your current medications in their original bottles.

10. Important documents such as medical files, insurance card and id.

If you gather these items ahead of time and take them with you to the hospital, you can ensure yourself a more pleasant recovery.  Put them in a bag with shoulder straps so that a family member or friend can easily keep up with these items before you are assigned a room and easily transport them if you are moved from room to room during your recovery.

A brief mention is necessary of items you should not take with you for your hospital stay.  Items such as food and drinks, clothing, your own linens, scented candles or air fresheners, credit cards or cash and work related items.  Some of these items could easily be lost or stolen while other items may be considered intrusive to other patients.  Consider leaving these items behind when your recovery requires an extended hospital stay.

And remember:  planning for a better surgery ~ begins with a better plan.

Mary Edison has been helping people prepare for surgery and recovery for over 25 years. She knows all the ins and outs of getting prepared for surgery and creating a successful and speedy recovery.  She has also created her "Heartfelt Gift Pick" get well list that will help you find that special and unique get well gift, something that's totally out of the ordinary ~ for your loved one or friend who is ill.

For more information about Mary, please visit Prepare For Surgery Now .  You can also download her free copy of "Your Guide to Less Stressful Surgery" so you can be completely prepared when you need to have surgery.