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

Please do not bring any of the following:

  • valuables
  • large amounts of money
  • jewelry
  • electrical items (battery-operated items are OK)
  • medicines (bring medicine list only)
  • contacts (if you wear them). Please wear your glasses on the day of your surgery.

Source: Allina Health's Patient Education Department, Understanding Your Colon or Rectal Surgery, can-ah-95399
First Published: 01/24/2013
Last Reviewed: 08/15/2017