Set The Stage For Success - http://www.setthestageforsuccess.com
10 Ways to Stay Safe in the Hospital
http://www.setthestageforsuccess.com/articles/19102/1/10-Ways-to-Stay-Safe-in-the-Hospital/Page1.html
Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA
Barbara Ficarra RN, BSN, MPA is an award-winning journalist, media broadcaster, media spokesperson, media coach, creator/executive producer/host of Health in 30® radio show which airs live Fridays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST, broadcasts on WRCR-AM 1300 and streams live online at http://Healthin30.com. Health in 30® is a 30-minute show that brings listeners the latest health and medical news and information with leading guest medical experts. Barbara conducts lively, informative and engaging discussions with leaders in their fields to provide vital health information on a broad range of topics, while focusing on education and prevention; and listeners will often call-in with questions. She is also the founder and editor-in-chief of the Healthin30.com website which provides vital health information covering a broad range of topics, and it centers on education and prevention.

 
By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA
Published on 09/13/2008
 
Medical mistakes unfortunately do happen in hospitals and shockingly, it is reported that 238,337 patients died from potentially preventable medical errors during 2004 through 2006, according to HealthGrades' fifth annual Patient Safety in American Hospitals Study. The good news is that you can be proactive in your health and help eliminate these medical mistakes.
Medical mistakes unfortunately do happen in hospitals and shockingly, it is reported that 238,337 patients died from potentially preventable medical errors during 2004 through 2006, according to HealthGrades' fifth annual Patient Safety in American Hospitals Study. The good news is that you can be proactive in your health and help eliminate these medical mistakes.

In a recent article on Forbes.com the authors talk about “Scariest Hospital Risks.” Unfortunately the information was rather stale, a little choppy and it didn't provide information to help you avoid these risks. The article appeared to blame surgeons for the overcrowding issue and doctors for not washing their hands. The latter refers to a study, but the article doesn’t provide any information regarding the study and more importantly it doesn’t let you know what you can do to stay safe.

While this topic is frightening, I've shared 10 simple medical insider tips that could help you stay safe and alive!
  1. Germs, germs are everywhere ... Wash your hands. Hand washing is the single most effective way to keep germs at bay. Washing your hands for 30 seconds with warm soapy water will do the trick. If a sink isn’t nearby, alcohol based hand sanitizers work great. In fact, some hospitals have hand dispensers by each patient’s door and inside the room. Make sure you ask anyone that comes in contact with you if they have clean hands. It’s okay to ask them if they’ve washed their hands. It’s not rude and you are not being obsessive. You are preventing infections and keeping yourself safe and alive.
  2. Always be proactive in your health. Take charge and be aware of your surroundings and know everything that is taking place.
  3. Always ask questions. Don't allow yourself to be intimidated if you don't get an answer that makes sense. Ask for further clarification until you understand.
  4. Make sure you understand your diagnosis and the exact plan of care.
  5. If you need assistance, ASK! Don't get up on your own if you are shaky. This will help keep you safe. You do not want to fall and get injured.
  6. Know your “Patient's Bill of Rights."
  7. If you are scheduled for surgery:
    • Make sure you understand EXACTLY what’s involved.
    • Make sure you and the surgeon talk about the area, procedure and recovery involved.
    • Make sure the appropriate area is clearly marked!
    • Remember to ask questions!
  8. Make sure you understand the medications that are ordered for you in the hospital. When the nurse administers your medications, make sure you understand what they are for, and if there are any side effects. Also, make sure your nurse identifies you as the correct patient before any medications are administered. Remember the five checks nurses must perform before administering any medications:  Right Patient, Right Drug, Right Dose, Right Route, and Right Time.
  9. If you cannot be your own advocate, ask a trusted family member or friend to help you.
  10. Know what’s going on. It’s your right.
For anyone that has listened to the Health in 30® radio show, you know how important it is to always speak up and ask questions. Be in charge of your own health. Make your next hospital experience a successful one, and move on to enjoy every day!