A hospital stay is a big event in a child’s life. You and your child will have a lot on your mind in the lead up to it. Here’s a quick checklist of things to pack before you leave home, so you don’t forget any essentials as well as some tips for what to dress your child in for a procedure or surgery.
What you should bring
For your child
- Pyjamas, ideally open to the front so clinicians can assess breathing or the abdomen
- Comfortable, warm clothes such as tracksuits and T-shirts
- Underwear
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and toiletries
- Favourite toys, books, colouring pencils and/or games
- Headphones
- Any special formula or foods your child may require, in unopened tins
- Any special equipment your child may need (e.g. a gastrostomy connection, non-invasive ventilation machine)
For a baby
- Warm clothes (including socks)
- Favourite toy and familiar objects
- Nappy bag
- Dummy/ pacifier or items that make your baby feel safe and secure
- Special teats or formula, in unopened tins
- Expressed breast milk, with the date and time of expressing. It will be labelled and stored on the ward
- Any other special dietary items
Note: Disposable teats and ready-made formula (S26 and Karicare) are supplied at the hospital.
For parents and carers
- Medications/puffers your child is taking, with a list
- Relevant doctors’ letters
- Relevant X-ray/pathology results
- Medicare card
- Health insurance details
- Change of clothes, toiletries, food and a book/entertainment for yourself
- Non-slip footwear to wear at all times during the stay
- Phone or device charger
- Meals or snacks
- Reusable cup with a lid for hot drinks
Please note, high-value items and medications must be stored securely.
What not to bring
- High-value items and medications should only be brought to hospital if they are required
What to wear
If your child is coming to hospital for surgery, dress your child in clean, loose-fitting clothing with no metal buttons or zips. It’s better if they wear a t-shirt and shorts or pyjamas as they’re easier to take on and off. Put something warmer over the top if they need it.
They’ll need to wear shoes inside the hospital.
Remove all piercings, jewellery, nail polish and makeup.
Read more about visiting and staying at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, or preparing your child for surgery, on our website.