It may have been some time since you were last admitted to hospital or perhaps this is your first time. If you are coming in for a day procedure, wear clothes that are easy to take off and put back on.

If you are staying a bit longer, here is a list of some of the items you should bring with you:

• Medicare card
• Private health insurance details
• Your GP contact details
• DVA, Pension or Concession Card
• All medications currently in use, including those stored in the fridge. This also should include non-prescribed and any vitamin supplements. Your chemist can provide a list of the medications you are taking
• X-rays either recent or connected to your admission.
• Appropriate night wear such as a nightie, pyjamas, dressing gown.
• Enclosed slippers or some form of appropriate footwear that fasten. Avoid bed socks or loose-fitting footwear as they may contribute to a fall.
• Toiletries such as shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, hairbrush/comb and special toiletry needs such as pads or tampons, steradent for dentures or contact lens solutions.
• Continence aids if used and an adequate supply of these for your stay.
• Hearing aids and spare batteries.
• Glasses, both day glasses and those you wear for reading.
• Details of or equipment for special care requirements such as walking frame/stick and any special treatments you are undertaking.
• Diabetic glucometer and its accessories such as lancets, insulin pens etc.
• People with colostomy or stoma bags should bring the items you use and an adequate supply of these for your stay.
• A bag to put soiled laundry into for family or friends to take home for cleaning

Try to keep items that are portable such as x-rays, in the same place so they will always on hand.

Always let someone know where these items can be located.

Don’t bring large sums of money or jewellery as we cannot guarantee their security.