Being in the hospital sucks. Besides the fact that you’re some combination of sick and hurt, you’re also a patient stuck in a sterile, boring place. Instead of bringing food (not sure of diet restrictions or nausea) or flowers (everyone brings flowers!) to a loved one, I prefer to bring a goody bag of things to help them through their visit. Recently, a very lovely woman had a hospital stay, and I wanted to bring her a few things to make her a bit more comfortable. Here’s a list of what I brought her…
- chapstick
- lotion
- face wipes
- wisps (little toothbrush things)
- expanding file folder (for all her doctors notes and paperwork)
- puzzle book
- notepad
- pen
- deck of cards
- pretty tote bag
Depending on who the bag is for and what they’re in the hospital for, other things could include:
- warm, slip resistant socks or slippers
- bathrobe
- breath mints or lifesavers
- favorite healthy foods – if diet allows
- book
- magazines
- pictures of family, or electronic frame with pics
- phone list of family numbers
- movies / DVD player
This is a simple idea that can make a world of difference for someone in the hospital. Any other ideas?
What would make your hospital stay a little better?
Cards are a great idea. Anything to pass the time with someone who spends a ton of hours bedside sounds nice.
Other travel games are great too. Battleship was a big hit!
Having just been in the hospital myself, I would have to say your list is pretty good! Chapstick was a necessity, esp cause I couldn’t have water before surgery. The warm, nonslip socks were great – my sister brought me those and I didn’t even ask for them! I would also say a toothbrush and your fav toothpaste – it’s such a little thing, but it felt so good to finally brush my teeth after a day or two! Cell phone charger too, esp if it is an emergency – that way they can keep in touch with everyone they need to!
Oh, and I think flowers are great – I didn’t get any when I was actually in the hospital. They would have been a welcome treat in my boring room.
Washi tape to hang postcards. a book, earbuds, especially if the roommates are coughing or snoring 🙂