What to Pack for Your Hospital Stay Before Orthopaedic Surgery
Staying overnight at a hospital can be an anxious time and packing can leave you feeling overwhelmed; especially if it's your first time or you're unsure about what you'll need. Preparing a thoughtful overnight hospital bag for surgery ensures you'll have all your essentials to hand making your stay all that more comfortable.
From personal hygiene items and comfortable clothing to important documents and small comforts from home, the right preparation can ease stress and support recovery. Here is a detailed checklist of key things to include in your luggage:
Important Documents
Personal information is vital to have on your person, for in some instances your surgery may not take place. Photo ID & insurance card are needed for admission and billing purposes, and any medical paperwork such as referral letters, test results, or prescriptions may be required.
You should also remember to provide a list of health conditions and any medications you may be taking, being mindful to include the dosages and schedules to help staff manage your care.
Comfortable Clothing
Clothes that provide comfort are one of the top long hospital stay must-haves. Be sure to pack loose-fitting pyjamas or gowns that are easy to put on and remove after surgery and include comfortable underwear & socks (preferably cotton).
Slippers with non-slip soles are helpful for walking around safely during recovery; and don't forget to bring a comfortable set of clothes and shoes for the journey home.
Personal Care Items
It is advised to bring your own toiletries, especially if you have a brand preference. Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and soap should be at the top of you packing list as these essentials are needed daily.
Add a moisturiser & lip balm to your bag as hospitals can be dry and these will help to prevent discomfort. And not forgetting your hairbrush or comb; you'll want to feel refreshed after surgery.
Electronics & Entertainment
Being entertained won't be high on your to-do list but a book or magazine will come in handy when trying to pass the time during recovery. Never leave home without your phone & charger as you will need to keep in touch with family and friends and possibly access information. Headphones or earplugs can be useful to block out noise or listen to music.
Comfort Items
Make yourself comfortable with items that provide familiarity such as a small pillow or blanket from home. Think about packing an eye mask if you struggle to sleep with light, as some wards can be rather bright.
Travel Bag
All the above should be transported efficiently and what better way to do so than with a reliable bag. The best bag for hospital stay is a medium-sized duffel or carry-on rolling suitcase. Both options offer multiple compartments for all your items and provide enough space without overcrowding a small hospital room.
The rolling case is easy to manoeuvre, ideal for after surgery; while the duffel bag is lightweight with comfy, reinforced handles or shoulder straps that offer support. These bags are durable and made from easy-to-clean materials, practical for hospital environments. They open wide and stay upright so you can find items quickly and with lockable zippers they offer added security.
What you can Leave at Home
When composing an overnight hospital stay packing list, the goal is to pack light; just bring the essentials for comfort, hygiene, and communication. There's no need to pack expensive jewellery, watches, or any sentimental items, as there's a chance they may be stolen, and hospitals will ask patients to remove all jewellery before surgery.
Leave large amounts of cash or bank cards at home, as you should only need a small amount for minor expenses and billing can usually be settled electronically. Don't carry too many clothes; you'll be provided with a gown, and you'll likely wear loose, comfortable outfits only when discharged. A couple of sets is more than enough.
Makeup, hair styling products and perfumes are unnecessary; you won't need them during recovery, and hospitals tend to have scent-free policies. And as you'll be focusing on recovery, you won't have time to open up your laptop or hop on your gaming console; a phone or tablet is enough for entertainment and communication.
Packing for the hospital should not be an added pressure. Pack only what you need and make an already anxious time a little less stressful.
Keep Your Possessions Safe
So, you've decided what to bring to the hospital for abdominal surgery, but how do you keep your items secure? Our clinic is a generally safe, but busy environment meaning your belongings can be easily misplaced. The less you bring, the easier it is to keep track of everything so pack light and leave unnecessary valuables, such as jewellery, large sums of money, or sentimental items at home.
Use a reasonable sized bag that can accommodate your things. If your belongings are kept in one compact, easy-to-manage bag they're less likely to get misplaced or go missing. Label your items by adding your name to your clothes, electronics, chargers, and any other personal items to avoid mix-ups with other patients.
Keep your phone, glasses, or hearing aids close to you – possibly in a bedside drawer or within arm's reach. If you have items that you don't want to leave unattended give them to a family member or trusted friend to take home for safekeeping; if not you can ask one of our members of staff to provide a locker or a safe to securely store your wallet, ID, other small valuables during your stay.
And lastly, be discreet. Avoid leaving your valuables in plain on bedside tables or on the bed. Keep your possessions tucked away when not in use.
Choosing what to pack for hospital stay for surgery should be treated as if you were going on holiday or a short break; lighten your load and pack only what you need. Don't overwhelm yourself by taking everything but the kitchen sink. Remember, most hospitals and clinics usually provide gowns, basic toiletries, and bedding, so focus on the items that will improve your comfort and support your recovery.
If you haven't booked your surgery in yet, contact us at Victorian Bone & Joint Specialists to get started with surgeons who care about you and your recovery.