The doctors, nurses and other care team members are committed to making you and your childs stays in the hospital as comfortable as possible. Here are some guidelines to help figure out what to bring, what might be available at the hospital and if you're ever in doubt, always ask.
What to bring:
- Your child’s health card and any additional health insurance information.
- A list of current medications your child is taking (if applicable) and the medications themselves. They will be reviewed by the doctor. If your child should be continuing with these medications while in the hospital, they will be given by the nurses.
- All important details and information about your child's past medical history and current health status.
- Any personal items (e.g. toothbrush, contact lens solution, deodorant) if you are intending to stay overnight with your child.
- Items from home that might make your child’s stay more comfortable such as a favourite stuffed animal, blanket or toy.
- The hospital will have a shower and/or bathtub for you to use, however, you should bring shampoo, conditioner, and body wash for yourself.
- You are welcome to bring in your own laptop or tablet. Many of our hospitals have free Wi-Fi. Please remember to bring any phone chargers/cables with you. These are not be provided.
- If your child uses a special bottle (e.g. Dr. Brown’s) please bring it with you.
What is Provided by the Hospital:
- Diapers for your baby.
- Pajamas and linens are provided for your child. If your child would prefer to have their own pajamas/linens, or if they are sensitive to detergents, please bring them with you.
- Blankets and a pillow (for a parent or caregiver) if you are staying overnight with your child.
- The hospital will have a shower and/or bathtub for your child to use. We supply personal care items such as shampoo, body wash, toothbrushes and toothpaste for your child.
- Many hospitals have a parent/family lounge. Some are equipped with telephones for making local calls, a fridge, microwave and coffee machine. Many hospitals have a cafeteria with meal and/or snack options.
- There are a variety of infant formulas stocked for use during your hospital stay. Bottles will be provided. If your child uses a special bottle (e.g. Dr. Brown’s) please bring it with you.
- Each hospital will have access to a fridge should you want to store expressed breast milk. If you require access to a breast pump, please ask your nurse.
- Hospitals may have kitchens on the unit that have snacks, juice, milk and other food items for your child. If you wish to bring in your own food from home, please check with your child’s nurse before giving it to them.
- Hospital rooms may have TVs and/or DVD players. Cable service and WIFI may also be available (facility dependent).
Please keep in mind that hospitals are a scent-free environment. Do not wear scented products such as after-shave, deodorants or shampoos. These can aggravate the health problems of others. The Saskatchewan Health Authority is not responsible for the loss of personal items. It’s important to take your valuables (e.g. purses, wallets, cell phones) with you if you leave the room for any reason.
If you have any other questions, the members of your hospital’s pediatric team would be happy to answer them once your child is admitted.