Be Active in Your Own Healthcare

Your health and comfort are our priority. You should be involved in your own healthcare decisions, so we want you to know how to do that. Please be aware of ways you can be involved. 

• Your care. You should expect hospital staff to explain every medical task. If you have questions, please ask them. If you’re not well enough to understand, have your designated support person be your advocate.  
• Medication. Be sure your doctors and nurses know about all medications you currently take, including the dosage and how frequently you take each one. This includes over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements. Don’t take medications brought from home without the approval of your doctor or nurse. When you receive medication from us, you’ll be told what it is and what it’s for. If it’s not familiar or if you don’t feel well after taking a medicine, please call your nurse.
• ID confirmation. Every time you receive treatment, we ask for your name and date of birth. Yes, every time – when blood is drawn, when you receive tests like X-rays and when medications are given. Don’t be alarmed if our staff also checks the information on your armband – it's for your safety.
• Cleanliness. Hospital staff should wash their hands or use hand foam before and after every contact to help prevent hospital infections. It’s always okay to ask your doctor or nurse if they washed their hands.