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What to bring

Here are a few tips to help you prepare your child for an out-patient appointment, such as a visit to the pediatrician or physical therapy session.

Documentation and paper work

  • Insurance information
  • Photo ID
  • Co-pay (if applicable)
  • Relevant medical records (if applicable)
  • Questionnaires or forms sent to you in advance (if applicable)
  • A list of any current medications your child is using

Familiar items from home

  • Infants (0-12 months): A favorite blanket, toy or pacifier (if the child is having a procedure, a familiar bottle for after the procedure may be appropriate — ask your doctor)
  • Children from (1-12 years old): A favorite blanket, toy or other item
  • Teens (12-19 years old): Music player/iPod®, cards, games, movies, books, cell phone, laptop or iPad®

Needle procedure preparation

If your child may be having a needle procedure (such as a shot, blood draw or IV), you may want to ask your care provider if you should bring:

Learn about our steps to lessen needle pain.

Top 10 things to bring with you to the hospital

From the Children’s Minnesota Youth Advisory Council

  1. Your own blanket, pillow, music and stuffed animal
  2. Loose PJs from home (Children’s Minnesota has PJs you can wear, too)
  3. Slippers and socks — sometimes you can wear your own clothes (ask your doctor)
  4. Toothbrush, comb, lotion, personal items and a hat (so you don’t get “bed head”)
  5. Your own electric devices (iPod, laptop, handheld electronic device, etc.)
  6. Things that help you relax, like music, books, magazines and pictures
  7. Phone numbers and email addresses of family and friends
  8. Questions for doctors, nurses and other care givers
  9. Posters, pictures, decorations for your room
  10. A positive attitude — everyone is here to help you — you’ll do great!