Health & Safety Tips
How patients can help foster a safe environment
Take an active role in your care has many advantages. Your doctor, nurse and other healthcare providers welcome your involvement.
Below, find tips for you and your family to help us ensure your health and safety:
Tip #1: Be involved in your healthcare.
To be involved in your healthcare:
- Take part in all decisions about your treatment.
- Share any special care needs that you have.
- Ask a trusted family member or friend to accompany you when you visit your doctor if you are too ill or stressed to participate yourself.
- Remember you are the center of the healthcare team.
Tip #2: Speak up if you have any questions or concerns.
You have a right to question anyone who is involved with your care. To be sure you have all the information you need, it can help to write down questions to ask for the next time you visit the doctor.
Tip #3: Identify yourself.
Be sure the healthcare professional asks your name and birthdate. Also, don’t hesitate to inform the healthcare professional if you think he or she has confused you with another person.
Tip #4: Ask healthcare workers to tell you what they plan to do before you consent to any procedure.
Healthcare workers should tell you what they plan to do before any procedure. Also, you can remind healthcare workers who have direct contact to wash their hands. Handwashing is an important way to prevent the spread of infection.
Tip #5: Bring your doctor a list of your medications and mention any allergies you have.
This list should include all over-the-counter medications, home remedies, herbal medications including tea, vitamins and weigh gain or loss products such as shakes, pills or bars. Sometimes they can be dangerous when you take them with other medications.
Know what medications you are taking, why you are taking them, and potential side effects. Let the doctor and nurse know of any allergies and type of reaction or side effects you have. Also be sure to ask questions about the medications you are prescribed during your appointment.
Downloads
Safety Videos for Patients
Watch and learn valuable tips about how to be actively involved in your safety.
