How could anyone understand when such a thing is suggested by your attending doctor, who has also mentioned that some of your relatives or loved ones have to be admitted to the hospital even for a long time? Naturally, questions will arise about what to bring, how to behave, how to kill time, and even how one copes with it.
A little planning and preparation could indeed make this experience so much easier and more comfortable.
1. Take your own little “home”
Often, hospitals can seem very impersonal and cold but given the ability to personalize your room.
- Exclusively for those pillows or blankets that have been the longest, for better sleep.
- Put family photos on the wall or table.
- Keeping tiny items of memory like your favorite mug, book or small showpiece informing about you, adds even more of one’s identity.
2. Cleaning and personal hygiene objects
Staying in hospital for a long time means taking extra care of your hygiene.
- Remember that toilet kit – soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, towel.
- Keep lip balm and moisturizer, because hospital AC can dry out the skin and lips.
- If you like a particular brand of product, then use that only, so that there is no problem with skin or hair.
3. Preparations for spending time – prevention of boredom
Time sometimes passes very slowly in the hospital, especially when there are fewer visitors.
- Carry your favorite books and magazines.
- Download movies, songs and podcasts in advance on mobile or tablet.
- Crosswords, puzzles or coloring books can also prove to be good companions.
4. Staying connected – Contact with family and friends
It is very important to stay connected with loved ones to avoid loneliness.
- Write down all the important phone numbers in both a diary and mobile.
- Keep charger, power bank and earphones with you.
- Keep telling your loved ones about your condition through video calls and also know their condition.
5. Food and water – Keeping the body strong
Along with treatment, proper diet is also important.
- Be sure to tell the hospital staff about your preferences, allergies or diet needs.
- If the doctor allows, you can order light homemade food.
- Maintain the habit of drinking water – it would be good to keep a refillable bottle with you.
6. Medical information – Keep everything organized
You will have to give the correct information to help in treatment.
- Make a list of your medicines, allergies and previous treatment.
- Write down the time and dose of medicines, so that nothing is forgotten.
- Do not hesitate to ask questions to the doctor – it is your right to understand the treatment.
7. Mental and emotional support
Long hospital stay can also tire the mind.
- Fix a time to meet family and friends, so that you get regular emotional support.
- Give the responsibility of giving updates to one person, so that you do not have to explain to everyone again and again.
- If you feel heavy, talk to the hospital counselor.
8. Maintain movement – as much as possible
- Do light exercises as per the doctor’s permission.
- Stretch your hands and legs on the bed.
- If allowed, take a short walk.
Light movement improves blood circulation and keeps the muscles active.
9. Ways to keep the mind calm
Illness and hospital environment can increase anxiety.
- Do deep breathing exercises – inhale slowly, hold and exhale slowly.
- Do meditation or listen to light music.
- Read good books or listen to inspirational stories to keep a positive attitude.
10. Packing Checklist – What to Avoid
- Comfortable clothes and slippers
- Essential medicines and medical records
- Toilet kit and skin care products
- Phone, charger and power bank
- Books, magazines, puzzle games
- Family photos or memorabilia
- Water bottle and (if allowed) light snacks
