The days were counting down to our first baby and the time had come to pack the hospital bag. I filled it up and I. was. prepared! My sister, Anna, became an OB nurse in 2012, so I asked her to come over and check what I packed.
Annnnnd she pretty much took everything out. Whoops.
So, below is an OB nurse’s guide to what you actually need to pack for the hospital. Do yourself a favor and pack lightly because you’re already leaving with more than you came with!
The Hospital Bag
*Note: if you live in Iowa you need to bring a check or cash for $35 for the birth certificate. This may vary by state.
Now that you know what to pack, don’t forget to bring some small gifts for your nurses. Their work is truly incredible and they deserve so much praise. And speaking of gifts, wait to give parents a gift until they get home. They already have a lot to carry and many items accidentally get left at the hospital, especially flowers.
And now go to this post on what to pack in your diaper bag so you’re not like me and show up to your baby’s first appointment with no diapers in said bag. Makes you wonder how the bag got it’s name.
twss,
Kelsey
PS: Not sure if your car seat is installed correctly? There are car seat technicians for that! Luckily my sister and friend, Anne, are both certified and helped us learn to install ours correctly. Ask a nurse if you need help!
