Not knowing what to pack for your patient’s hospital stay can be stressful. That’s why the team at Lifestyle Homecare has rounded up a concise and beneficial list of things to take to make your patient’s stay more comfortable when packing for a hospital stay.
- Clothing and Footwear
- Medication
- Toiletries
- Entertainment
Clothing and footwear
Comfortable clothing is an important factor to consider when packing a bag for your patient because hospital gowns aren’t the nicest attire. Some things to pack could be a dressing gown, slippers, jumper, loose pyjamas, or loungewear. Don’t forget essentials like clean underwear, socks, etc.
Medication
It is vital to remember to pack the patient’s medication. The hospital will also advise you to bring the medication that your patient has during their daily routine. The hospital staff let you know if they aren’t allowed to take certain medication before procedures, but bring them regardless.
A toiletry bag
Packing a small bag of toiletries can help make your patient feel freshened up and comfortable while staying in the hospital.
Here are the essentials that we recommend:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Hand sanitiser
- Lip balm or Vaseline
- Hairbrush or comb
- If your patient wears makeup, let them bring it if they would like
- Baby wipes or facial wipes
- Hand cream
- Face moisturiser
Media for entertainment
During your patient’s stay, they can endure a lot of waiting time or it can feel lonely when visiting hours are over, so it is beneficial to bring some form of entertainment.
Light reading material such as books, magazines, and newspapers is great! Another way to pass time is by completing puzzle books and, if possible, a portable DVD player is also a good way to entertain your patient during lengthy waiting times.
Other things that will benefit you and your patient
- If your patient is expecting surgery and it’s nil by mouth, it would be nice for them to have some snacks and a drink afterward such as cereal bars, nuts, and seeds, sweets, fresh juice, or bottled water.
- Stick to all advice given by the doctors.
- If it is possible, we wouldn’t recommend bringing valuables into the hospital in case of any damages or loss.
If you’re looking for more advice within the homecare sector, then please don’t hesitate to reach out today!
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