What I Bring With Me to the ER!
Most of us have experienced a trip to our local Emergency Room at least once or twice. When you’re chronically ill, this becomes a more frequent endeavor. For the past three to four months I’ve unfortunately been in a consistent flare up (and injured myself a few times) , and the ER docs by my house now know me by name. So, the 4sick girls and I decided it might be fun/ relatable to share what I bring with me to the ER. Bag haul time! :P
A friend gifted me a Mayo Clinic tote bag that is my designated ER bag. I’m not normally a fan of tote bags but it's perfect for last minute trips; it’s easy to carry and find things in, and it's made from a pretty durable material.
When I start packing my bag I always start with the basic things first: clothing. I always bring an extra pair of underwear, shorts, and socks. Sometimes I bring an extra shirt as well but not always. The underwear is especially important. You never know how long they’ll keep you at the ER and I hate wearing the same pair for too long. Next, I pack the meds that I take everywhere with me: migraine meds, anxiety meds, anti- nausea meds, and vertigo meds. I always bring these just in case, even if the ER may have the medication there. Though, typically ER’s don’t carry the migraine medication I use, so it’s easier for me to have it with me if I develop one while I’m there. Of course, I always speak to the doctors about my medication and wouldn’t take anything that would interact with medication given to me at the ER.
Since a trip to the ER can take a few hours, or days if you are admitted, you’re going to want to pack some entertainment. I always bring my phone, phone charger, and my wireless headphones. Sometimes I bring a book, but I’m not a big reader like my fellow Now What besties. I like to watch TV or movies if I’m waiting for a while, and you can even download things on streaming services for offline viewing.
Last things I always bring with me is my Stanley or a water bottle, snacks, hair ties, and disposable toothbrushes. Depending where you go and what you’re being seen for, and if you don’t get admitted, you might get hungry or low blood sugar. Chances are they will give you IV fluids at the ER, but it can take a while to get to that point, and your throat can get dry, so it’s a good idea (especially for my POTS girlies) to keep hydration on you. My Stanley can also act as a soother sometimes. I put ice water in it and cold drinks can help calm the nervous system if you get nervous in the hospital- which I definitely do. For snacks, I like to bring a salty and sweet option, and a protein option. For example I could pack crackers, some chocolate covered pretzels, and a protein bar.
There are a few optional items that I take with me to the hospital. If I think I will be admitted or be there for a few hours, I will usually pack my favorite blanket and Henry- my lavender stuffed sloth that was gifted to me by my best friend, Natalie. Ironically, for as often as I am in the hospital, I don’t do well with needles or blood draws, and I often am sensitive to medication. Having these two items with me, and sometimes, a friend, can significantly reduce the anxiety I feel. The blanket also helps keep you warm and is easy to take on and off for access to your IV.
So, that's what I bring with me to the ER! I like to be a prepared chronically ill girl. Everyone’s bag will differ but this is what makes me feel prepared and at ease for my hospital trips. How would your bag differ?
