What to Bring With You

We understand your child’s hospital stay can be stressful, and we encourage you to bring a few of your child’s personal items to make the experience more comfortable.

Some ideas include:

  • Favorite blanket, teddy bear or other comforting items
  • Toys, games, books and magazines
  • Favorite pajamas and slippers
  • Favorite foods or snacks (if medically permitted)
  • Photos of your family or pets
  • Cell phone charger

Please do not bring jewelry, large sums of cash, credit cards, electrical appliances or anything else you deem valuable. Tufts Medical Center cannot assume responsibility for any personal possessions. If you must bring valuables or large sums of money, they will be secured by Public Safety in the dispatch safe. To reach Public Safety, please call 617-636-7700.

Parents—don’t forget to pack a few items for yourselves. Procedures and surgeries can often take a long time. Books, magazines, a computer and a change of clothing can keep you occupied and comfortable while waiting.

Medications to bring

Please be sure to bring a list of all medications your child is currently taking. We ask you not bring medications from home to the hospital. It is important we know about both prescriptions and over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, Motrin and/or any vitamins or other supplements taken. If you are unsure of the doses or the names of the medications, your child’s pharmacist or pediatrician may need to be contacted to obtain the information.

Please let us know if your child has any food or drug allergies and what kind of allergic reaction he or she experiences. It is important we have all this information so we can provide the safest and most appropriate care possible.