Checklist: What to bring and what not to bring

Introduction

We have created this list as a guide for patients coming to hospital. If you have any questions specific to your care please contact your doctor or the POWH patients' enquiries office on 02 9382 2291.

If you live alone:

Turn off the electricity, gas and water
Lock all windows and doors
Cancel any newspapers or other regular deliveries
Tell a relative or friend of your impending admission
Organise someone to look after your pet/s

What to bring

When you are being admitted you may be asked for any of the following documents to confirm you entitlements:

Medicare card
Hospital and / or medical benefits book
Repatriation Health card
Pensioner/Pharmacy/Concession Healthcare Card
Doctor’s referral letter
X-rays if requested by your doctor
Any medications you are taking. Please ensure they are in the chemist’s original, labelled packaging together with repeat prescriptions
For TAC or WorkCover patients:
- Written approval confirmation,
- Relevant claim numbers and documentation.

NOTE: If you are being admitted under workers compensation or Third Party Insurance you will need to bring full details of the insurance so your claim can be lodged.

Personal belongings

While staying in hospital you will have a bedside locker in which to keep your personal belongings, such as:

Pyjamas or a nightgown
Dressing gown and slippers
Toiletries – ie toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, soap, hair brush/comb
Reading Material
Personal Stereo
A small amount of money to purchase newspapers, magazines or to pay for use of the Hostel television and phone service
Stationery

NOTE: Please label all your personal belongings clearly with your name, so they can be easily identified.

What not to bring

The Prince of Wales Hospital cannot accept any responsibility for personal possessions. Please do not bring any of the following items to hospital with you:

Money and valuables – you should bring only enough small change to purchase papers/magazines etc. Please leave all your valuables at home
Cigarettes – The Prince of Wales hospital is a smoke-free facility, and you should speak to your doctor about ways to give up smoking before going to hospital
Electrical equipment, mobile phones and computer games, as these items can interfere with machinery in the hospital
Your car – car parking is available at the hospital at a rate of $12.00 per day. You may also find that after your stay you are not able to drive, particularly if you have had surgery. It is best to have a friend or relative drop you off and drive you home after discharge