If you or someone else is experiencing a medical crisis, getting to an emergency room is likely your biggest priority. But if it’s at all possible, you should bring a few items along to make the experience easier. Next time you need to head to the hospital, have a few of these helpful essentials on hand.

5 Things to Take to the Emergency Room        

1. Photo ID & Health Insurance

Photo identification—such as a driver’s license—can help the hospital verify personal information and prevent insurance fraud. Your health insurance card will also simplify the billing process and help you avoid hefty charges that your provider may cover.

2. List of Medications

Emergency care providers must know a patient’s current medications and dosages to make safe treatment decisions. You should also be sure to let the hospital know if you are allergic to any medications.

3. Cell Phone

Your cell phone is a great resource when you need to look up the contact information of your current doctors. It can also enable you to contact family, friends, and work so that you can inform them of the situation. You might also use your smartphone to take notes while emergency personnel detail your medical situation and how to care for it. To keep your device powered up, be sure to bring a phone charger.

4. Change of Clothes

Having a fresh change of clothes on hand can also be helpful if healthcare providers have to cut through your clothing or if you need to stay in the hospital for an extended period. Since emergency rooms can be quite cold, it may also be nice to have warmer clothes—such as a sweater or sweatpants.

5. Small Comfort Items

While not critical, having small comfort items—such as a pillow, blanket, or stuffed animal—by your side can be soothing. These items are particularly helpful for children who may need extra distractions or security during their time in the emergency room.

When emergencies strike, it’s critical to know which hospital you can rely on. Residents of Skagit County, for instance, should turn to specialists at Island Hospital in Anacortes, WA. Backed by a fully equipped emergency room and surgery center, this provider can address a variety of medical situations swiftly and comprehensively. In addition to their advanced resources, this team is committed to providing patients with compassionate care every step of the way to make tough situations easier to endure. You can learn more about their emergency department online or by calling a friendly staff member at (855) 440-4200.