What to pack

[pamela1130]

Hi, Perhaps this has been discussed before but I have never really been in the hospital over night.  What do I pack?  Do I pack my own night gowns or use theirs?  Should I bring sweat pants type of pj's or no?   What do I pack to come home in?    A jogging suit type of clothing?  Do I take crutches with me, or will I get them at the hospital?  Also my bed at home seems high to me.  Do I get a stepper to get into it and where do I get one of those or can I just get in.  What are the socks I have heard discussed?  Do I need special socks?  Anything else I need to know as far as what I need to get ready.  My surgery is this Wednesday.  Thanks and sorry if these questions have been asked before.   Pam

[stevel]

Hi Pam,

You should just bring the clothes you are walking in.  Be sure the pants are loose fitting as your upper leg will be swelled at discharge.  Don't bring any valuables other than about $20 to buy newspapers, magazines, flowers, etc.  Bring a credit card if you want to watch TV, use the telephone and internet at bedside.  The hospital provides gowns, crutches and a pair of TEDS stockings.
This applied to the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, NY.  Your hospital may not be wired for bedside communication, but the other services should be standard.  
Read "What equipment will I need after surgery" on "Pat's Corner" of this website for more equipment suggestions.