Hospital Packing List and Guide
For young people with CoHD
This list was created with input from young people who have been through heart surgery to help you prepare:
Clothing & Personal Items
- Button-up pyjamas – easier to put on after chest surgery
- Suitable underwear – soft, non-restrictive styles, boxer shorts
- Slip-on shoes or slippers, socks, dressing gown
- Comfy day clothes (front-opening shirts, loose pants)
- Slip on shoes or grip socks for walking around
- For women/girls: sports bras (wirefree or front-closing options can help), pads/sanitary products (hospital supplies are limited, so bring your preferred brand)
Toiletries & Self-Care
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner
- Face wipes and dry shampoo (helpful if you cannot shower straight away)
- Lip balm and moisturiser (aircon makes skin and lips dry)
- Hairbrush, hair ties, tissues
Comfort & Entertainment
- Favourite pillow, blanket, or comfort item from home
- Photos or small keepsakes from friends/family
- Phone, charger (extra-long cord), earphones, tablet/laptop (download shows/music before admission)
- Holder for iPad/phone/laptop
- Journal, sketch pad, cards, puzzle books, colouring
- Snacks that meet hospital rules (nut-free, soft foods for later recovery)
- Favourite drinks
Tips From Young People
- Pack light – storage space is small
- Button-ups are a lifesaver when you cannot lift your arms.
- Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs can help with hospital sounds at night.
- Eye mask (those hospital lights are bright)
- A notebook is handy for writing down questions to ask the doctors.
- Bring your own pillowcase/blanket – makes the room feel more like home.
- Don’t forget your charger (everyone forgets at least once!)
How Friends & Family Can Help
- Be present – sometimes just sitting quietly is the best support
- Keep visits short if the patient is tired
- Bring positivity – laughter, light conversation, favourite snacks (if allowed)
- Fresh flowers can cause allergies – gifts like ballons, artificial flowers or comfort items can be better
- Offer practical help – water bottle refills, tidying bedside space, managing phone calls/messages
- Stay connected – send photos, messages, or voice notes if you can’t visit
Hospital-Specific Info
Parking/Transport
- LocationÂ
- Cost
- Validation info
- Public Transport
Wi-Fi
- Is Wi-Fi available?
- Network and password details
Visiting hours & rules
- Visiting times
- Rest periods
- Number of visitors allowed
What to expect
- Pre-op area
- Waiting times
- ICU rules
- Monitoring equipment
