Unfamiliar and intimidating, hospitals can leave even the most unflappable people feeling vulnerable — and not just because of the backless gowns. You’re poked, prodded, operated on, X-rayed, and medicated to treat a condition you might not fully understand. And because most hospital stays involve surgery or some other invasive treatment for ill health, you may not be at your most clearheaded while you’re there. That’s why it’s important to prepare for your stay and know what to expect once you arrive. Preparing entails more than merely giving friends the address so they can visit or send flowers. You want to consider what you need to bring with you — everything from your medications to your favorite pillow — and how to guard against problems such as infection during recovery. Here, doctors, nurses, and patient advocates offer their advice on how to prepare, how to be a proactive patient, and how to recover safely and sanely.