What Should I Bring to the Hospital?
Use this as a guideline. Since the length of stay may vary by patient and surgical procedure, contact your surgeon's office for any specific instructions. Such additional instructions may include your presurgery diet (eating before surgery, water before surgery, etc.).
What to Bring to the Hospital for Inpatient Surgery at HSS
A Checklist for an Average 24- to 48-Hour Stay
- A legal picture identification (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, social security card, green card/permanent resident card, military ID). A copy is acceptable.
- Your hospitalization insurance card.
- X-rays or laboratory reports (if instructed by the staff).
- Any assistive device you use (e.g., cane, walker).
- Your completed Health Care Proxy form.
- An up-to-date list of your current medications and
dosages - Nonslip, flat, closed-toe athletic or walking shoes.
- Mobile phone and charger.
- A book, magazine, or hobby item to occupy time.
- Eye glasses, dentures and/or hearing aids.
Please Do Not Bring
- Medications, including narcotic substances (unless instructed by your HSS pharmacist). Self-medication during your Hospital stay is prohibited. It may lead to unsafe conditions like overdoses and/or drug interactions.
- Valuables and jewelry: Remove and leave at home all piercings and jewelry, including wedding rings to ensure your safety during your Hospital stay. See a jeweler for assistance with removal if needed.
- A suitcase. You should bring a small tote bag with your belongings.
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