 It is a good idea to have a bag packed and ready well before your baby's due date. You will be reassured, knowing that you are prepared for the big day-and you will not have to pack when you are in the early stages of labor. Here is a basic checklist of items you might need.
- Two or more bed pillows
- Tape recorder with your favorite music
- Hand fan
- Lip balm
- Food for your support partner
- Cards, books, videos
- Pair of socks
- Camera and film or video recorder
- Slippers and bathrobe
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Change of clothes for support partner
- Reading material
- Change for vending machines and pay phones
- Watch or clock with second hand
- Gown, nursing bra and panties for each day
- Diaper shirts or sleepers for baby
- Going-home outfit for baby, appropriate to the weather
- Going-home outfit for yourself
- Receiving baby blanket and outside blanket, appropriate to the weather
Finally, Tennessee state law REQUIRES that you outfit your car with an infant safety seat that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #213 for you to be able to take your baby home. Infant seats must be designed for use in a vehicle-you may NOT use an infant carrier instead. When it is time for you to go home, a nurse or medical technician will accompany you and your baby to your car to make sure the safety seat is in place. |
