A hospital stay is rarely a pleasant experience, but it can be made less stressful and ultimately more successful if you are prepared and take a few simple steps. Studies have shown that while it is normal to be anxious about an impending surgery, the more anxious the patient, the slower the recuperation.

Studies also show that the more knowledgeable you are as to your surgical procedure, the less anxiety you will experience. Fortunately, we now have more access to medical information than at any time in history. Your doctor and surgeon should always be the first sources of information concerning your surgery. However, if you wish more information concerning almost any form of medical care or surgical procedure, you can go online to the National Institutes of Health at www.nih.gov/health and The National Library of Medicine at www.nlm.nih.gov.

What should you take when you go to the hospital?

• A list of all medications currently taken
• Insurance cards
• Toiletries and makeup
• An inexpensive watch
• Family photo in an inexpensive frame
• Phone book or list of phone numbers (leave the cell phone at home)
• Small change for newspapers, etc. (leave the credit cards at home)
• Reading materials/magazines
• Sleepwear and a bathrobe (hospital gowns can leave you exposed)

Finally, try if you can to be upbeat. Studies have shown that remaining upbeat and positive can help get you back to normal faster.