6 Steps To Fame

1.  Write something interesting
2.  Send it to 5 friends
3.  Add it to del.icio.us
4.  Favorite in on StumbleUpon
5.  Add tags to everything
6.  keep writing!

New Article

I am  a health researcher, health educator, and RN. I am very interested in quality of care and health literacy. I think that it is important for people to learn as much as possible about the healthcare they receive and what to expect from their health care providers, including hospitals.

If you or a loved one is hospitalized, whom do you talk to if your have a concern?  There are a number of options. The physician who admitted you to the hospital, and also the RN who is assigned on a shift by shift basis to care for you/your loved one are the two people who know the most about you and your care.  If you are being cared for by a hospital-based physician, know as a Hospitalist, she/he should be famiar with your care as well.

If you have a question about your/your loved one's condition, you can direct your questions to your physicians or primary. If you have a concern about your care that  you feel is not adressed by your physician or primary RN, ask to speak to the charge RN for the unit in which your are hospitalized--every hospital unit, including the Emergency Department, should have one. 

If you are not satisfied with the answers you have received, ask to speak to the unit manager or hospital supervisor (evenings, weekends). An alternative person to speak with is the Patient Relations Representative or Patient Advocate, roles often available in larger hospitals and medical centers. Another option you have is to speak with the hospital social worker or Administrator on call, the latter is a common resource in most hospitals.

When you/a loved one is admitted to a hospital, you should receive a notice of "Patient Rights." This will explain what you can expect concerning you care, your related rights and your responsibilities. Another suggestion: speak up and do not be afraid to ask questions, and advocate for your self.  If you do not understand why you are receiving treatment, asking for more information of your doctor and nurse is important--you should be as informed as you would like to be about your treatment and condition. When you are being prepared for discharge, ask questions regarding how to care for yourself best at home. If you have questions about existing or new medications, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for information.

Lastly, do know that your participation in your care is essential and important to your recovery and improved health.