PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR CARE
n Tell your nurse if something doesn’t seem right. n
n n n n
Know what time you normally get medicine, and let your nurse know if you have not received it.
Request drawings or illustrations to help you learn about your condition.
Read and understand all medical forms before signing. Ask if you need information explained.
If your treatment involves medical equipment, practice using it with your care team before you leave the hospital.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. The more information you have, the better you will feel about making decisions.
n
Talk to your doctor and family about whether you want life-saving actions taken.
SPEAK UP
If you have questions or concerns, you have the right to ask and get a response from your doctor or nurse that makes sense to you. To help, share your answers to these questions with hospital staff. n
What language would you prefer to speak and/or read? n
Do you need glasses, hearing aids or other devices to help with talking to hospital staff?
n Do you prefer to hear, see or read health information? n
Do you have any cultural, ethnic or religious-based special needs?
n
Who will be your support person who talks with hospital staff about your healthcare wishes? (see p. 17)
And Remember, Take Charge of Your Communication:
Ask About Jargon: If you hear a medical term you don’t understand, ask what it means.
“Teach Back”: After you get instructions or an explanation or disease-specific education, repeat back what you thought you heard so you can double-check that you understood.
Take Notes: Write down any key facts your healthcare provider tells you so you won’t forget.
21 You Are Key
You are the most important member of your healthcare team. Make sure you: n
Understand your treatment n Ask questions
n Speak up about pain n Know your medicines
n Plan early for a successful discharge
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