Your health and wellbeing are extremely important to us! Here is some information to help you stay safe during your hospital stay:
Communication with your Care Providers:
- Be an active member of your healthcare team. Ask questions about your health condition and take part in decisions around your plan of care
- Write down any questions you may have for your doctor or nurse, to help you remember
- Let us know if you have any allergies, sensitivities or restrictions to medications or food
- Talk with your healthcare provider about the treatments you will receive in hospital. Make sure you understand why the treatment is being recommended, how it will impact you and what to expect after the treatment. Let your healthcare provider know if there are any problems after the treatment
Prevent the Spread of Germs:
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after you use the bathroom and before you eat or drink.
- Tell friends and family with colds or other infections not to visit
- Let your care provider know if your bedding, clothes or linen are soiled
Equipment:
- Ask your healthcare provider about the purpose of any equipment in your room
- Enquire about what the equipment is for and what to do if an alarm goes off
Preventing Falls:
- Use your call bell to ask staff for assistance getting out of bed
- Wear safe clothing. Slippers with rubber soles or anti-slip sock are preferable
- Ask for help if you are getting up to use the bathroom or getting dressed
- Let your healthcare team know If you notice clutter in your room. They will help clear a path so you can safely move about your room
Medication Safety:
- Make sure your healthcare team is aware of all the medications you take. Bring an updated list of all the medications you have been taking at home
- If a care provider offers you a medication that you do not know about, ask about it before you take it
- Tell your health care provider if your medicine is not helping or if you are experiencing any side effects or an allergic reaction, such as a rash, swelling, tingling in the throat or tightness in your chest. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of these symptoms
- Always wear your hospital ID band. Make sure the information is correct
Discharge Planning:
- Before you go home, make sure you review any discharge instructions with your healthcare provider
- Know who you should contact if you have questions or concerns, once you return home. Ask when you can resume normal activities, return to work and any follow up appointments that are scheduled
We appreciate your suggestions and ideas about how we can ensure a safe environment for patients and visitors. If you have a safety concern you may speak with the manager on your unit or contact the Patient Relations Office.