I wanted to add something sort of funny. The first time I was hospitalized, I had no idea what to expect, and I packed all kinds of things that of course were taken away! I guess I just wasn't thinking. I brought a hair dryer and curling iron -- both immediately confiscated -- as well as a Walkman, makeup, etc. etc. etc. The nurses must have been laughing their butts off. I probably looked like I was packing for ClubMed or something!