10 top tips for…inpatient admission

Inpatient admission as an Autistic person can be a stressful experience. This blog curates ten tips for everyday items you can bring with you to help ease the process. Written by an anonymous guest contributor with experience of inpatient services.

When you go into hospital for the first time you’re uprooted. It can be hard to know what to expect and what to pack. It can be very daunting, whether your admission was planned or not. When you’re Autistic, it can be really stressful to ask questions. When I was first admitted I was terrified. I couldn’t speak to anyone.

It’s scary, but it’s ok to be scared. When you go into hospital it’s very likely that other people on the ward have had similar feelings and experiences.

Everyone is different, but here are some of my top 10 suggestions for what to bring on your first admission.

01 Short-length charging cable

We’re in the age of social media. Not all wards allow phones or Ipads and some will keep them in the office. Long charging cables will be removed, so bring a short cable (less than 15cm). It helps to stay connected with friends, family and your support network.

02 Self-soothing sensory toy

It can help to have a sensory toy to play with. Make sure it’s something that can’t be cut open or broken into parts. Slime is usually allowed. Things like soft plastic spinners, tangle teasers or foam stress balls are all good options.

03 A teddy-bear or soft-toy

Some people might feel embarrassed about this. Don’t be. On one ward I was on, everyone had at least 3 Jellycats. It’s the same on adult wards. You won’t be the only one with a toy.

Warmies (toys you can ask staff to heat in the microwave) are great. They can be grounding, can ease period pain and can feel like a warm hug.

04 Ear defenders

Ear defenders are a godsend. Quite a lot of wards have them, but it’s helpful to bring your own. Wards tend to be very loud with noise from incidents, alarms going off and noisy activities. It can all add to sensory overload so it’s great to be able to block out some of the noise. It doesn’t take it away but it’s better than nothing. Some people bring noise cancelling headphones, but these might need to be charged by staff. Whatever you chose, make sure they don’t have a cable.

05 Photos and pictures

Lots of people personalise their room with pictures of their pets, friends, family and support network.

06 Shoes or slippers (without laces)

It’s possible that your laces might get removed when you are first admitted, and it’s really hard to walk in loose shoes—especially for those of us who are dyspraxic! Slip-on shoes like sliders, slippers, Crocs or Vans are much easier. Crocs are really popular with staff and patients, and lots of people accessorise them with funky jibbitz.

07 Activities

There will be a lot of times when you don’t have much to do and need a distraction. Crayons (no sharpeners), felt tips, colouring books and crosswords all pass the time.

It can be good to have a notebook to record your thoughts, to pass notes, and to aid communication if you’re struggling to speak.

For people who use them and experience situational mutism, communication devices and communication cards are essential.

08 Clothes

Most people live in lounge wear, pyjamas and soft clothes. Wear whatever makes you feel comfy. Don’t worry – nobody is expecting you to look like you’re going to school or to work. Make sure you take strings out of trousers and hoodies. Elastic is your friend. Some places might confiscate things with hoods, but it can be great for blocking things out, so worth checking if they’re allowed.

Make sure you label all your belongings, including clothes. A label maker or pen will help with this.

09 Glasses

If you wear glasses, bring them and remember to bring and label the case, too. Other glass isn’t allowed, so if you have a favourite smell then you might need to spray it onto a bit of cloth rather than bringing it in.

10 Favourite food and drink

Most wards will let you bring in sealed food. There will usually be a cupboard or fridge for your things. You’ll need to label this, too.

If there’s something that helps you feel safe and you’re allowed, bring it in with you.