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7 Necessary Things You Need to Know For an ER Stay

By Dr. Kishalay Datta in Emergency & Trauma

Nov 08 , 2020 | 1 min read

Dr. Kishalay Datta. Principal Consultant, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh offers these tips for what needs to be packed in case of an emergency.

List of Current Medications

Make sure you have a complete, ready to go current list, which includes the right dosage and number of times the medication needs to be taken, thereby making it easier for the hospital to ensure your loved one gets the best care.

List of Allergies

Make a list of medications or food allergies, including the type of reaction and intervention used for treatment.

Description of Diagnosis

Keep a document handy that mentions about all medical conditions. This can be obtained from a primary care physician. The description can also include how each condition is being treated.

Doctors/Specialists Names and Numbers

Take time to compile this information, which is good to be prepared in any case.

Insurance Cards/Information

A photocopy of the card is a convenient way to record this information, but the hospital may ask to see original cards.

Photo Identification

Always keep your Aadhaar Card/ Pan Card/ Driving Licence handy. Keep a photocopy in your files in case you leave without your wallet.

Emergency Contacts

You will want to save your emergency contacts (friends, family or relatives) along with their contact information who may want to know about your loved one's condition.

Don't forget to have some items for yourself as the caregiver. A book, a snack, sweatshirt, and cell phone charger may make the waiting more bearable.

As a caregiver what should my bag include?

For your overnight stay, you need to include:

A change of clothes. Keep comfort and practicality in mind, and don't forget to keep a pair of undergarments, sleepwear, robe, and slippers. Patients may be required to wear a hospital gown for easy care of patients and are permitted to wear personal items at different times during their stay.
Toiletries - Most hospitals will provide essentials, but it's nice to bring familiar items from home.
Favorite snacks/candy - Check to see if it's OK to carry eating stuff to the hospital, but some facilities are fine with bringing a favorite snack or sweet treat.

A trip to the emergency room can be nerve-wracking. However, if you are prepared, it will become easier for everyone to ensure that the process goes smoothly.