We recently welcomed a new member to our family and spent several days at the hospital. I went from being completely overwhelmed to handling everything calmly, and in the process, I figured out exactly what you need to prepare for accompanying a birth or visiting someone in a Spanish hospital. Since I’ve seen many friends on the forum asking about this, I decided to organize my personal experience into a super practical checklist to share. Hope this helps everyone!
Personal Protection: Protecting Yourself and Your Family
This is absolutely the top priority! Although the situation has improved, a hospital is a unique environment, so you can’t let your guard down. Besides the basic supplies that the hospital provides, which you can learn more about through experiences with [donations to Spanish hospitals] and guides on [hospital supply donations], it’s best to bring some of your own. Better safe than sorry.
- Masks: I recommend bringing plenty of FFP2 masks. While regular surgical masks are acceptable, in a crowded environment like a hospital, FFP2 masks offer better protection. I brought a whole box and changed it at least twice a day, which gave me peace of mind.
- Hand Sanitizer: A small, portable bottle is very convenient. You can use it anytime you enter or leave the room, before and after meals, etc. Although there are dispensers in the hospital hallways, having your own is much more convenient.
- Disinfectant Wipes: These are a lifesaver! Use them to wipe down the bedside table, chair armrests, doorknobs, your phone, and more. They effectively reduce the risk of contact transmission. I even used them to wipe down food delivery containers.
Daily Essentials: Making Your Hospital Stay More Comfortable
Hospital amenities are limited, so if you want to be more comfortable, it’s best to bring these items yourself. Don’t underestimate these small details; they can significantly improve your quality of life during your stay.
| Category | Item Checklist | Notes |
|---|
| Toiletries | Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, towel, slippers | Hospitals usually don’t provide these, and you can see a personal experience about hospital protection in Spain here. Slippers are a must for showering and walking around. |
| Electronics | Phone, power bank, extra-long charging cable, headphones | An extra-long charging cable is key |
| ![/size][/color] Power outlets in hospitals are often in awkward places. |
| Entertainment | Book, tablet, Nintendo Switch | Having something to do can help ease anxiety during long waiting periods. |
| Personal Clothing | A few changes of clothes, a comfortable jacket | The room might be air-conditioned, so bring a jacket just in case. |
Bonus Items
Finally, here are a few items I brought that made a huge difference in my comfort level:
- U-shaped Pillow and Eye Mask: For the person staying over, these are absolute saviors for getting some decent sleep on a folding chair.
- Snacks and Instant Coffee: Hospital food might not be to your liking, or you might miss a mealtime. Having some snacks on hand helps a lot. Coffee is a must for staying awake during long nights.
- A Large Bag: Keep everything in one large bag for easy management and to avoid frantically searching for things.
That’s pretty much it. Of course, everyone’s situation and needs are different, so feel free to adjust this list accordingly. I hope this checklist provides a helpful reference for anyone heading to the hospital soon. Wishing you all the best and good health for your families! ¡Mucho ánimo!
