How to Protect Yourself When at the Hospital
The Five Towns Jewish Times had an excellent article that outlined how to protect yourself during your hospital stay.
Upon admission, get yourself a copy of the Patients’ Bill of Rights.
This documents all the rights to which patients are entitled, including the right to be kept apprised of medical care and the right to a safe, clean environment.
Ask questions
It is not unusual for medical staff to be too busy to speak to patients. If you feel someone is not giving you the answers you request, ask to speak to someone else (a supervisor or patient advocate).
Be aware
If you know what medications you are supposed to be on and a nurse comes in offering something “new,” have them double-check your chart just to make sure you are getting the correct medication and dosage.
Stay vigilant
This may mean being perceived as a “pain,” but keep on top of your own care; medications, treatments, and tests all create the potential for errors.
Don’t accept things unquestioningly
Remember, you always have the right to ask for a second opinion and even a third if you do not agree with the answers provided. Sometimes the worst errors occur when one merely parrots what his predecessor says.