Your Health and Safety

We encourage all patients to play an active role in their health care. Below are steps you can take to become an involved and informed participant in your safe care:

Check for proper identification. Make sure that the name and date of birth on your wristband are yours and that your name is spelled correctly.

 Prior to any lab work, test or procedure, ask the health care professional to verify your name and date of birth. Expect all health care workers to introduce themselves when they enter your room or provide a test or treatment. Look for their identification badge. Should you have any concerns, please ask your nurse.

Ask questions if you have any doubts or concerns with your care. Do not feel embarrassed to ask questions if you do not understand something that your physician, nurse or health care professional tells you. Do not hesitate to speak up if you think a health care professional has you confused with someone else.

Educate yourself about your diagnosis and treatment plan. Read all medical forms thoroughly and make sure you understand them before you sign the form. If something is unclear, ask your doctor or nurse to explain. Make sure that you and your physician agree on exactly what will be done during your hospitalization. If you are having surgery, your surgeon will mark the appropriate site before surgery.

Know your medications and why you take them. Keep and bring a list of all medicines you take and the dosage (prescription, over-the-counter and herbal) to the hospital. Know why you take each medication.

Always make sure you are receiving the correct medications. If you do not recognize a medication, verify that it is for you. Do not hesitate to tell the nurse or doctor if you think you have been given the wrong medication.

Make sure your nurse or doctor checks your wristband and asks your name before giving you any medication or treatment. Ask the purpose of all medications and information on possible side effects and interactions.

Tell your doctor and nurse about any allergies or unusual reactions you have to any medications.

Participate in all decisions about your care. Know who will be taking care of you. Do not hesitate to ask for a second opinion, if you feel unsure about any recommendation you receive. Be sure that you receive the results of any test or procedure you have done. Prior to discharge, make sure that you understand all the instructions for your follow-up care.