Essential Preparation Tips For Anyone Due A Hospital Stay
Being prepared for an in-patient stay in the hospital will reduce your stress levels, optimize your comfort, and save you from having to ask loved ones for emergency supplies. According to the American Hospital Association, the average length of a hospital stay increased by 19% between 2019 and 2022. You need to be prepared because there’s a good chance your hospital stay will be longer than planned. Here’s what you must do.
Rest up
Hospitals are not known for letting patients get good quality sleep. Studies have found that patients typically get less than 2 to 3 hours of uninterrupted sleep in the hospital. Sleep is essential when you’re dealing with pain and trying to recover from something such as surgery. In the days leading up to admission, get as much sleep and rest as possible. Also, pack sleep aids in your hospital bag, such as comfy sleepwear, ear plugs, and an eye mask. Take your favorite pillow with you too, significantly if it reduces pain in your neck and shoulders.
Careful plan your hospital bag
You must pack essential items, such as clothing, things to wash with, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and your medication in your hospital bag. But you also need to think outside of the box. Superbugs are common in hospitals and infect up to 2 million people yearly. The most likely to be found in hospitals are MRSA, C. diff, and CRE, among others. Hospitals should have strict cleaning protocols to protect against hospital-acquired illnesses, such as maintaining air ducts and vents. But you should pack alcohol-based hand sanitizer to help protect yourself. You should also be prepared not to shave, as this can keep superbugs away.
Prepare your entertainment
You might be in the hospital for days or weeks. Either way, you need to have things to keep you entertained while you’re there. This will help remove your mind from any pain and stop the days from dragging. In-patients typically watch 11 hours of TV daily, but be prepared to pay for this luxury. Otherwise, you could take books, a tablet, puzzle books, adult coloring books, or a crocheting project.
Preparing to spend time in the hospital can be a daunting task, especially when you’re dealing with chronic pain on top of it. These tips will ensure you’re fully prepared for what’s to come, so you don’t have to worry.
By Jennifer Dawson
Published by International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog, Team iPain
