Preparing for your hospital stay
Before you leave home, please check that you have packed:
- your admission letter and any other information we have sent to you
- all medications you are taking or using, including prescription medications, medicines you have bought or alternative medicines, such as herbal remedies
- small amounts of money in case you want to buy a newspaper or use the bedside television and telephone
- the name, address, postcode and telephone number of your GP, community social worker (if you have one) and your next of kin
- proof of entitlement to free travel costs, if appropriate
- nightclothes, a dressing gown, non-slip slippers (not flip flops) and a pair of comfortable flat shoes
- day clothes – a tracksuit or other looser, comfortable clothes
- your glasses and/or contact lenses
- your hearing aid if you use one
- any mobility aids you use, such as a walking stick or walking frame
- a hair brush or comb
- shaving equipment
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- flannel, soap and a towel
- shampoo
- sanitary products (such as tampons or sanitary towels)
- other toiletries
- Items of religious importance to you
- Blue Badge (if you have one).
You might also want to bring:
- books and magazines
- writing paper, pens and your address book.
Please do not bring:
- large amounts of money, jewellery or other valuables
- alcohol or food
- large bags or suitcases because storage space is limited
Don’t forget to: