As the big day comes closer, more items are added to the hospital bag. From diapers to a baby blanket, more and more things are slowly put into the bag. As you are close to completing your mental checklist, you might want to review and reassess your packed items.
The healthcare industry is one of the most important ones out there. It doesn’t have to take a sick person to avail of medical care. A mother in labor is an example of that. That’s why many individuals seek medical franchise opportunities in this relevant industry. But even the nearest medical facility might not have the other things you need like slippers or socks.
Ask yourself if you really need to bring a laptop or ten going-home outfits for the baby. To help optimize the space for your hospital bag while not leaving behind anything you might need, here’s a short list of valuable things you might’ve forgotten to add to your checklist.
Phone Charger
When preparing the hospital bag, it’s common for parents to prioritize the needs of the baby. That’s diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and so on. The second would be the mother’s things. But when it comes to the other practical items, it can be either a hit or miss. One of these items is the phone charger. It would be best if a spare charge would be purchased separately for this use, so it won’t be missed in the middle of rushing to get to the hospital. While you’re at it, buy a cord that’s at least one meter long. The outlets could be a little farther from the bed. But with a long cord, your phone will be within your reach no matter how far the outlet is.
Bathrobe
While recuperating and healing from the stressful and painful process of giving birth, mothers deserve to relax and get comfortable. Those hospital gowns might not cut it. Lounge in your own comfortable clothes, or even in your own bathrobe. The least everybody can do is let you get comfy in your hospital room.
Notepad and Pen
Taking notes of instructions and advice from the doctor can be helpful, especially when it seems like an overwhelming amount to recall on your own. Although there’s the alternative of using the phone, some folks are more comfortable taking notes the good old-fashioned way. A pen and a notepad can be handy in the most crucial times, especially when writing down important information. Be sure to pack this pair just in case.
Snacks
Anyone can imagine the hustle and bustle of getting to the hospital. It’s all busier during the delivery. A plethora of emotions is up in the air, the adrenaline kicks in. It’s a situation that requires snap decisions and moving fast. Nobody has the time to stop and think about food. The fastest way to get to the hospital is to grab what you can and go. But when all the tension and high emotions settle, the exhaustion starts to kick in, probably hunger too. Pack granola bars and other snacks enough to ward off hunger.
A Change of Clothes for Going Home
Maybe you got to pack an extra set of undies or a shirt or two as extra clothing. Hospital gowns are available in the hospital, after all. But what about a change of clothes for the drive home? Many mothers often forget about this and end up wearing what they wore the time they got committed. Although that’s fine, too, changing into a fresh set of clothes after staying in bed for most hours dreaming of a shower sounds preferable for many. Pack a going-home outfit for baby too!
Socks and a Cardigan
Because of hormonal changes and fluid or heat loss, women can feel cold easily. Although it’s not fully understood yet, the term used for this is called postpartum chills. It’s best to have a cardigan or a jacket with a zipper, especially if you’re breastfeeding. When it’s time to nurse, it’s easy to zip down or loosen the buttons without feeling cold. Pack other things to keep warm, too, like socks, pajamas, and even a beanie.
Chapstick
Although a recent study has shown that eating or drinking during labor might not actually have risks or benefits. Additionally, women who did eat were not more likely to vomit than women who didn’t. Even if some doctors and hospitals re-evaluate this practice, they may vary in strictness to this long-practiced rule. If your doctor advises you to stick to ice chips, be sure to pack a lip balm or chapstick. Because women in labor are usually not allowed to eat or drink anything, even if it’s just water, it can leave the lips dry.
The Bottom Line
Indeed, there’s no place like home. The hospital offers the medical needs of a newborn and its mother, but it doesn’t provide the same comfort at home. The hospital stay is only a temporary discomfort before being able to bring your newborn home. So before then, pack what you need and fully enjoy the first few days of your child’s life.