What precaution should patients planning a hospital stay be told regarding valuables?

• A. Carry valuables at all times
• B. Leave valuables at home
• C. Bring valuables
• D. Lock valuables in a safe in the room

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to minimize personal belongings to reduce the risk of loss or theft during a hospital stay. Hospitals can be busy and rooms aren’t always secure around the clock, so keeping valuables at home eliminates the chance they won’t be found or could be stolen. If you must have something valuable with you, talk with hospital staff about secure storage or have a trusted family member hold it, rather than relying on a room safe, which may not be available or reliable. Carrying valuables at all times or bringing them into the room increases risk, and locking them in a room safe isn’t always possible, which is why leaving valuables at home is the safest recommendation.