FRANCIS BACON


Who questions much, shall learn much, and retain much.


Speak Up! Take charge of your care.


During your stay, the doctors, nurses and staff of your hospital will treat you and your family as partners in your own care. One important way that you can be involved is to speak up. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and don’t be afraid to raise any issues relating not only to your care and treatment, but also to overall hospital services. In the pages that follow, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making the most of your hospital stay—how to stay safe, get the information you need, ask the right questions and interact effectively with your doctors, nurses and hospital staff.


STEP UP & SPEAK UP


SPEAK UP: Ask questions and voice concerns. It’s your body, and you have a right to know.


PAY ATTENTION: Make sure you’re getting the right treatments and medicines.


EDUCATE YOURSELF: Learn about the medical tests you get and your treatment plan.


FIND AN ADVOCATE: Pick a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.


WHAT MEDS & WHY: Know what medicines you take and why you take them.


CHECK BEFORE YOU GO: Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of healthcare organization that meets The Joint Commission’s quality standards.


PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CARE: You are the center of the healthcare team.


© 2014 PatientPoint® Courtesy of The Joint Commission. www.sphn.com 915-832-2000 : 9


Remember: n


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Write down any questions you have


Choose a family member to communicate with the doctors and staff


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Keep a list of doctors you see and the meds they prescribe


Don’t Get Overwhelmed, Write It Down!


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