Items to Bring for Hospital Stay

As you’re preparing for your hospital stay, make sure you pack the following items: 

• Personal Identification - be sure to carry two different pieces of ID when you come to hospital. 
  • Learn more about Personal ID to bring
• Your valid BC Services Card and any other relevant health services cards or information.
• Prescription medications that you currently take should be brought in with their original packaging. The doctor or nurse will review them and let you know if there are any necessary changes.
  • Learn more about your medications to bring
• Completed history and physical form and test results (if applicable).
• Physician's office letters you have received (if applicable).
• Items for your personal care: basic toiletries (e.g. toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, hairbrush, dentures, razor), pajamas/nightgown, bathrobe and proper footwear (flat, enclosed heels, rubber soles or lace-up shoes).

Do not bring valuables such as large sums of money, credit cards, electronics, or jewelry (rings and watches that you normally wear should be left at home).

Interior Health cannot be held responsible for any lost or stolen items. Should you need to make any payments for a private room or equipment, arrange to have someone drop of your credit cards, cash, or cheque book when it’s time for you to go home from hospital.
 

If you are coming to hospital for a scheduled or planned appointment, you will need to visit our patient registration services. You need to present two pieces of personal identification (ID), one with a photograph. 

In addition to two pieces of personal ID, bring any other health insurance card(s) (e.g., extended health) that you have. If your hospital admission is due to a work-related injury or illness, bring your WorkSafeBC claim number.
 

When you are planning a stay in a hospital it is important to remember a few key things about your medications:

• Take your Personal Medication Card and your current medications with you including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. A health-care provider may need to see them, or you may need to continue using them. Ask whether or not you should send your medications home with family members.
• Keep track of your medications. Ask what medications are being given to you and what they are for. Asking questions may prevent errors.
• Create safe habits and organize your medication.
• Look at the medications you are taking before you take them. If they look different, ask why. You may be receiving a generic brand, or it may be an error.
• Do not let anyone give you medications without first having them check your hospital ID bracelet. This helps prevent the administration of someone else's medications.
• If you have any questions about your medications, ask to speak to a hospital pharmacist or learn more about making the best and safest use of your medications.

Visit our Managing your Medication page to learn more