What to bring for your hospital stay

Please bring the following to the hospital:

• a current list of your medicines
• a print copy of Understanding Your Colon or Rectal Surgery (optional)
• a copy of your health care directive (if you have one)
• personal care items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, denture cleaner, comb, skin care products, deodorant and make-up
• clothing you intend to wear home, including loose-fitting pants, shirt, underwear and socks
• glasses and storage containers
• hearing aides (if you wear them), storage container and extra batteries
• your insurance card, driver's license or photo ID
• gum

For your comfort and convenience during your hospital stay, also consider bringing the following items with you:

• your list of affirmations for surgery
• Sea-Band^® wrist band (This may help prevent nausea after your surgery. It can be purchased at most drugstores. It is also available as an option during your hospital stay.
• peppermint tea bags or ginger tea bags. Sipping warm tea may help with any nausea after surgery. You can buy them at most grocery or health food stores
• personal music player with headphones
• book, magazine or small amount of money to buy newspapers (All rooms have a television and telephone.)
• phone numbers of family and friends