Preparing for Your Hospital Visit

 Irina Gaipa

Use this helpful guide as you prepare for your labor and delivery at a Sharp hospital.

Admission Form
As your day of delivery gets closer, take the time to fill out the preregistration form and mail it in with a copy of your insurance card or bring it to the admitting desk when you arrive at the hospital. If you are not able to fill out the form before your day of delivery, please go to the admission desk right away upon your arrival.

Cameras
Make sure you charge your cameras and have plenty of memory or film and new batteries.

Car Seat
Have the baby's car seat properly installed in your car to be ready for baby. According to safety experts, 96 percent of all car seats in San Diego County are improperly installed.

Nighttime Arrival
Be sure to check your hospital's protocol for evening arrivals to ensure you know where to park, which entrance to use and where to locate the admitting staff for a nighttime arrival.

Packing
Have your bags packed in advance. It is best to have a smaller bag with items you will want during labor and a suitcase with postpartum items. View our list of packing suggestions.

Parking
Be sure to find out where to park when you go into labor, please do not park in handicapped or ambulance parking areas. Wheelchairs are available at all hospitals.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's pregnancy and childbirth services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego OBGYN or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. To find general information about pregnancy and childbirth, visit Pregnancy and Childbirth in Adult Health or read the Pregnancy and Childbirth News archive.