Disclaimer: Every hospital, department, and manager operates differently—be sure to check with yours to get the most accurate information. This blog post is meant to be a starting point, not a definitive guide.
When the winter storm hit Houston, I was called into the hospital to stay overnight due to TeamA/B being activated. It’s one thing to prepare for a 12-hour shift, but knowing I might be there from Monday night through Thursday afternoon was a completely different challenge. I had no idea what to expect but knew I needed to pack smart since I didn’t know when the code would be lifted. I’ve never had to work during a code.
Every hospital system is different, so it’s crucial to reach out to your manager directly to ask:
- How long might you be there?
- What’s expected of you during the emergency?
- What resources (like food or bedding) will the hospital provide?
- Where to check in?
Here’s a look at what I packed to make it through those three days as comfortably as possible:
Clothing
- Three sets of scrubs – Enough for three full days of work
- Two shirts and Jeans– To wear around the hospital, off the clock
- Six pairs of socks – I always pack extra socks
- Nightgown
Bedding Essentials
- Twin-size air mattress – This one is a game-changer. It was easy to inflate, and having my own “bed” made a huge difference.
- Blanket and pillow
- Earplugs and eye mask—The earplugs blocked out noise from codes being called at night, and the eye mask helped me sleep despite the bright lights of the computers and phones.
Personal Care Items
- Face wash, body wash, toothbrush, and toothpaste – All the basics to feel refreshed.
- Face moisturizer – Hospitals are dry, and this helped a lot.
- Towel and shower shoes – If your hospital has showers, you’ll be glad you brought these.
Entertainment and Tech
- Kindle
- Phone charger
- Headphones
Snacks and Food
Since I am a vegetarian, I packed my own meals and snacks. While the hospital provides three meals a day, it’s always safer to have options you know you’ll enjoy.
What I packed:
- Pre-made lunches and dinners
- Granola bars
- Fruit and nuts
- Water bottles
What About You?
Have you ever had to stay overnight at work or in an emergency? What would you pack for a multi-day hospital stay? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!