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STAY SAFE - Fighting Infections continued


sometimes they forget. You and your family should not be afraid or embarrassed to speak up and ask them to wash their hands.


Doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers come into contact with lots of bacteria and viruses. So before they treat you, ask them if they’ve cleaned their hands.


Know Your Meds


While you are hospitalized, your doctor may prescribe medications for you. Be sure that you understand exactly what they are and why they are being prescribed. Use this checklist to help you get the information you need from your doctor: What is the name of the medicine? What is its generic name? Why am I taking this medicine? What dose will I be taking? How oſten, and for how long? When will the medicine begin to work? What are the possible side effects? Can I take this medicine while taking my other medications or dietary supplements? Are there any foods, drinks or activities that I should avoid while taking this medicine? Should I take my medicine at meals or between meals? Do I need to take the medicine on an empty stomach or with food or a whole glass of water? What should I do if I forget to take the medicine and miss a dose?


Preventing Medication Errors By taking part in your own care, you can help the members of your healthcare team avoid medication errors. Here’s how: Be sure that all of your doctors know what medications you have been taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications,


16 : PATIENT INFORMATION 915-747-2712


Happy Birthday to You! Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. That’s about the same amount of time that it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.


No Soap? No Problem. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are as effective as soap and water in killing germs. To use, apply the cleaner to the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. Keep rubbing over all the surfaces of your fingers and hands until they are dry.


USE THE MEDICATION TRACKER ON PAGE 33 TO HELP YOU MONITOR YOUR MEDICATIONS.


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