What do I need to bring to hospital?
If applicable, please bring the following cards to hospital with you:
• Private health details • Veterans Affairs • Medicare
• Pacemaker identification • Safety Net
• Pension Card • Ambulance cover • Alert information
Clothing
Remember: Non-slip footwear is always a good idea
For the first couple of days wearing a hospital gown will protect your clothing from potential staining. After that, both men and women can wear pyjamas (jacket opening down the front), or a loose tracksuit so that the upper body wounds and tubes can be cared for whilst maintaining lower body privacy. Ladies, if you are large breasted, bring bras into hospital with you as these help support your chest wound.
You will also require slippers, a dressing gown (not too long) and clothing to wear home (remember: comfortable, loose clothing is best over a chest wound).
Toiletries
Remember: Please label your toiletries bag
Your toiletries bag should contain a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap or body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, a brush/comb, and any other personal items you may require (for example, lipstick, moisturiser or shaving gear).
Medications
Please bring all of your medications in to hospital with you.
Is there anything else I might like to bring to hospital?
If you use CPAP at home, you may like to bring your CPAP machine.
If you use a walking aid (e.g., frame) at home, you may also like to get your family to bring it to the hospital ready for your recovery. You may also like to bring a book or iPad to keep yourself entertained.
Don’t forget to label your bags and reading glasses
Please label your bags as they will need to be stored in a secure location while you are in theatre and the Intensive Care Unit. Also remember to label your reading glasses as they can be easily misplaced during your time in hospital.
Please do not bring any valuables or large amounts of money into hospital.
While every care is taken, we cannot be responsible for the safety of your belongings. Ask your nurse if you require a small number of valuables to be kept in the hospital safe.