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