If you have Cystic Fibrosis, the hospital tends to be a second home whether you like it or not. I'm currently typing this from the comfort of my own hospital bed. This is a record for me as far as time spent in between hospital visits. It's only been a short three and a half months... but with CF comes a not-so-great immune system and with that comes the inevitable sickness... I was chosen to be the newest CF victim to get the flu and rhinovirus.
I'm going to be admitted for two weeks and nearly one week down already. Woo-hoo! When you're in an out of the hospital, you've got to make it feel like home. Here are a few tips, a few things to bring, and ways to pass the lovely hospital time.
1. DVD player/DVDs
I'm not sure when DVDs apparently became irrelevant but as much as I love watching movies on Netflix whilst balancing my laptop on my knees, having my favorite movies with me in the hospital not only makes me feel at home but it's also a great way to pass time in between the vital checks, IV pole beeps, and afternoon naps that are much needed in the hospital.
The chosen movies this hospital round? "Pitch Perfect" (a hospital tradition of mine - a must have), "Pitch Perfect 2", "500 Days of Summer" and "Liar, Liar". Laughter is the best medicine so make sure to stock up on the movies that you know will make you laugh.
2. Your favorite scents and soaps
This one can be a bit tricky. Obviously spritzing a million gallons of this stuff in your hospital room isn't a good idea because we don't need anymore breathing problems to come up! Bring stuff that you love, but isn't irritating to the airways! There are few things that make me feel better at the hospital than having a nice shower and coming out smelling nice. Odds are you can't shower every day so you've got to do all that ya can when you can.
3. Food essentials
Grab a few of your favorite snacks to bring along! Sometimes, it can take a bit for meals to come up or simply, they just don't have your favorites! Bring some mini-chocolate bars or fruit snack packs to keep by your side! Also, if you're a coffee lover I suggest bringing along powdered creamer! It at least saves me the embarrassment of asking for six creams and four sugars.
4. Bring your own bed
Literally, bring your own bed. Bring your pillow, throw blanket or both! The sheets that are in a hospital bed basically goes flimsy sheet, flimsy sheet, bath towel. Which reminds me, you may also want to bring your own towel!
5. Extra products
Along with all of the basics, bring a few extra care things. Detangler, dry shampoo, extra hair bands, face wash, and MOISTURIZER. I don't know about everyone else but my skin gets super dry in the hospital! I recommend bringing as many travel sized goodies as you can!
