This is just a list of items I have seen mentioned as good things to bring with you to the hospital! I have looked at many suggestions and I find that these will be on my list!

  • ChapStick (your lips are going to be dry after surgery)

  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste

  • Shampoo for when you can take that first shower, if they let you, and your own body scrubber
  • Body Wash, much easier then soap to try and use.

  • Brush/Comb

  • Mouthwash, I for one am going to be taking those new listerine patches that dissolve in your mouth. (Those listerine strips worked great! )

  • Deodorant

  • Robe

  • Non-skid slippers (slip on are best)

  • Walkman to listen to music ( Relaxing CDs, feel good CD's NOT AC/DC unless you are like me :) ) I also suggest if you can, to pack some good uplifting DVD's if you own a portable DVD player

  • A Table Fan ****
    AMENDMENT TO THE ABOVE. Most hospitals will NOT let you have a table fan, mine was denied. Plus you can adjust the temp in your room.. It is against OSHA. So... just get up and WALK WALK WALK

  • Magazines, Crossword puzzles and/ or a LIGHT book. The medicine will at first make your concentration not so hot, at least so I have been told!

  • For women who are of menstruating age...you should bring some pads or tampons. The meds they use to prevent blood clots can cause your period to start right away!

  • Phone Card(s) and list of Phone numbers

  • Pen and Paper ( I am taking my journal, wishing I had a Laptop!)

  • Small Mirror

  • Lotion MOST defiantly, to have your S.O. rub into your feet and legs. This will be good not only for circulation but also for your mental state! A Good foot rub goes a LONG way!

  • Box of Tissues ( the hospital's tissues aren't very soft)

  • Your own pillow might be more comfortable and a plus to have in the car for on the ride home.

  • Any medications your currently taking that your doctor might still have you take. JUST in case that it does not get ordered right! Remember your PCP is not the Surgeon! This way they have the script right on the bottle!

  • If you wear contacts don't forget the case and solution for them you will have to take them out.

  • Also if you have glasses make sure you bring them.

  • If you purchased a Medical alert emblem you might want to bring that also, however I would recommend letting one of your family member hold onto it so it doesn't get lost.

  • Cotonelle wet wipes (for easier cleaning) ( these were a MUST have so nice esp. when you can't shower right away. They were a life saver! )

  • Tongs or a wooden spoon (to use with the wet wipes for those time you might not be able to reach) :) I did take the tongs with however didn't need them.
  • I also suggest a little makeup if your a woman. Mom always said, if you look better you feel better, and GET YOUR BUTT UP AND WALK WALK WALK!!!

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