You’re in the hospital? Stay safe.
Going to the hospital can be a traumatizing and terrifying experience for anyone. If health problems have taken you or a loved one to the hospital, there is an entirely new culture to get used to. The more you can prepare yourself for the hospital environment, the better your stay. Here are our top tips to keep in mind for the safety of other patients and yourselves during your stay in the hospital.
Ask questions
The more you know about the treatment care that you or your loved one is receiving, the calmer you will feel about the whole process. Ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable. Also, make sure that your assigned hospital staff introduces themselves by name and knows your name, too. When you first arrive at the hospital and receive your identification bracelet, make sure your name is spelled correctly, and all identification information is correct. If at any point in your hospital stay you are concerned that your hospital staff may have you confused with a different patient, don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s better to voice your concerns than receive the wrong medications.
Know your medical history
Safety is a priority in hospitals, so make sure that you, your family, and your assigned hospital staff know all your allergies and the medications that you are currently taking so that no emergencies ensue.
Don’t be afraid to use the call button
Many patients are embarrassed when they need something and don’t feel like they can press the call button on their bed. Don’t make that mistake. The call button was installed into hospital beds for a reason, and it is meant to be used. Sometimes the difference between life and death is the press of that button. Don’t delay in pressing it, especially if you feel that your current health condition has changed suddenly.
Prevent infections
Infections are the bane of every nurse’s existence, and all hospital team members do everything they can to prevent infections from happening. Staff members should wash their hands thoroughly before working with any wounds, sores, or bandages you or your loved one may have. In fact, they should always thoroughly wash their hands before touching you or your loved one at all.
Involve another person in your care
Ask another person, whether a family member or trusted friend, to help you with your care. That could mean they accompany you to appointments, are there when your nurse attends to you or discuss treatment options, etc. They could take notes or otherwise help you in your healthcare.
“Patient safety is our highest concern,” said Elvie Bascual, assistant director of nursing at Lemon Grove Care and Rehabilitation. “For example, for our dementia patients who tend to wander, we supply them with electronic bracelets called wander guards that alarm the staff if they pass through certain barriers, such as designated doorways. This allows the dementia patient to maintain their freedom but allows us to keep them from wandering into places that could cause them harm.”
If you are the family member or trusted friend that is accompanying someone to the hospital, be as caring and supportive as you can, and make sure you understand what is going on so as to help to the best of your ability. Don’t forget that it’s okay for you to ask questions, as well.
As you go about your various doctor appointments and procedures, don’t forget these crucial patient safety tips. Make sure you know your medical history, ask a lot of clarifying questions, use the call button, if necessary, involve another person in your care, and prevent infections. If you follow these steps, your stay in the hospital will be stress-free and a good experience.
0 comments:
Post a Comment