question about stuff to pack

I keep seeing a calling card or credit card for phone calls on the lists to pack for the hospital. Can't we just use our cell phones? I'm delivering at NS Manhasset.

Also, a FB friend sent a note of encouragement and tips saying "once labor starts take a nice shower, make your Jello, and bring something from home like a pillow so I'll feel comfy". That was the first mention of Jello I've ever heard and I felt silly asking why on earth I would bring Jello with me. Is that even allowed?

Re: question about stuff to pack

Some hospitals ask that you not use your cell phone because it can potentially interfere with medical equipment. I don't think it actually DOES interfere with medical equipment, but some hospitals have signs asking you to turn off your phone when you go into certain wards. You can call your hospital and ask them what their cell phone policy is. We used ours and had no problems. I sat texting pictures while they were stitching my tear up...

As far as jello goes -- once you're in labor (at the hospital), you're supposed to stick to clear liquids in case you need an emergency procedure done. Our L&D class suggested lots of sucking candies and popsicles. They actually had italian ices available to give me -- I tried to have a little but almost threw up so I decided against it. I had had dinner before going to the hospital that night so I wasn't that hungry anyway. Jello would work too and is a good idea, but it depends on you. I had like a zillion jolly ranchers with me and didn't eat any. (I was very glad I'd packed several snickers in my hospital bag though because I was STARVING after and they never fed me enough.)

Oh, I saw your delivering at NSUH... I do remember "no cell phones" signs there last few times I was there (when my grandmother was sick and when my dad was admitted at one point) but we all ignored them completely. Even my dad in his hospital bed spent the whole time on his phone talking or playing or listening to music. I don't know how it is at the new maternity ward but I imagine cell phones can be used but it's just a guess.

Re: question about stuff to pack

I delivered there last year and was texting family throughout my labor.
Im pretty sure if you want to watch TV you need to pay with a credit card...I know i had my hubby use his credit card, but now i can't remember what it was for. Im pretty sure it was for TV and inroom phone service.

Re: question about stuff to pack

I didnt deliver at Northshore but I did deliver at Lij which is part of the same healthsystem. I used my cell phone and so did my roommate. Was never told I couldnt use my cell. As for the jello your guess is as good as mine LOL. I thought you are only allowed clear liquads if you are in labor