@Icespirit5, I'd never spent a night in a hospital before my hip replacement (2 nights' stay) and six weeks later, another surgery to fix an infection (5 nights' stay). Before my first stay, I pictured a dim, quiet room, comfy bed, plenty of time to sleep or read or listen to music. Nurses slipping in quietly to check something or other.
Although it was what I would call a fairly pleasant experience--I had a private room--it wasn't quite the way I pictured! Here's how it was for me...
Nurses are in and out of your room at all hours of the day and night, and they will wake you up to give meds, take vitals, draw blood, etc. Each time they will ask you your name, birth date, and scan your ID bracelet.
The bed isn't all that comfy, especially since you're probably tethered to an IV. Mine felt sort of like a fancy lawn chair.
There's always a light on in the room, although you can turn off some of the brighter ones to try and get some sleep.
Knowing what I know now, here are some suggestions for what to pack (especially if you'll be there for more than one night):
-One of your own nightshirts to sleep in
-A fleece blanket (this was the single most important thing for me during my second, longer stay)
-Face and body wipes
-Lip balm or chapstick
-A book--I didn't think I'd feel like reading, but I did--it got kind of boring hanging in the room (between PT sessions), and it helps pass the time
I brought an iPod but never used it (too many interruptions). Don't bother with slippers (you'll get footies), a robe (use a second hospital gown put on backwards). I left the wallet at home for security reasons.
The nurses, in my experience, were all very kind and professional. Some were absolute gems. Learn their names and get friendly with them.
The surgical team is like a well-oiled machine. Although it's a big deal for a patient, for them it's another day at the office. They know what they're doing. Trust in them.
I had the spinal and had no issues with it, they numbed me beforehand and I didn't feel the needle. For the second surgery I had a general and did OK with that as well, although it did take a bit longer to get clear-headed in Recovery. I also had a catheter (my first time with that) and had no problems with it (although I wasn't awake when it went in!). No peeing in a bottle, thankfully!
My best wishes on your upcoming hospital surgery and stay!