__ Comfortable clothes
You will change into hospital pajamas for surgery, but it's nice to have loose comfortable clothes while you are recovering and for the trip home. Many teens prefer to bring their favorite slippers, socks, or pajamas.
Your own pillow or blanket...whatever helps you sleep.
A hat...so you don't get "bed head"!
Toiletries Children's provides the necessary toiletries, but you may prefer your own. It's okay to bring them.
Snacks/money
If your stay is going to be for a few days or longer bring your favorite snacks and some money for snacks or the gift shop.
__ Something from home that you might want to take to surgery
Everybody knows what his or her special thing is. Footballs, teddy bears, blankets, photographs, dream catchers, you name it. And that's the point- whatever you think would be right, is. (As long as it isn't alive or edible!)
Entertainment
There are lots of things to do during your stay: movies, video game systems, magazines, etc. You know what you like to do so bring what keeps you busy. Here are some examples from teens that have had their own experiences at Children's:
CDs and CD player
Movies
Games
Music
Books
Deck of cards
Crafts or box of art supplies
Puzzles
Remember to mark your stuff with your name to help keep it safe.
Friends or family phone numbers and addresses.
Each patient care room has a private phone for your use.
A camera (if you like)
Remember to respect the privacy of others when taking pictures. Please do not include other patients, families, or staff in pictures without their permission.
A list of medicines you take, and any allergies you have.
If you wear contacts--bring solution, a lens case, and your glasses.
(You will need to take out your contacts for surgery.)
Other special medical equipment, for example; hearing aides, wheelchair, or special orthopedic braces.
