Speak Up
Everyone has a role in making health care safe — patients, family members, caregivers, physicians and other health care professionals. In conjunction with the Joint Commission, health care organizations all across the country, including the VNA, are working hard to reduce the chance of medical errors. You, as the patient, can play a vital role in making your care safer by being an active, involved and informed member of your health care team.
- S — SPEAK UP if you have questions or concerns. If you still don’t understand, ask again. Your health is too important to worry about being embarrassed. Don’t be afraid to tell someone if you think they might be giving you the wrong medication, treatment or therapy or something does not seem quite right.
- P — PAY ATTENTION to the care you are receiving. Always make sure you are getting the right treatments and medicines by the right health care professional. Don’t assume anything.
- E — EDUCATE YOURSELF about your illness, the services the home care agency will be providing you and your care plan. Make sure you are familiar with any equipment that is being used in your home. If you will be using oxygen at home, do not smoke or allow anyone to smoke near you while oxygen is in use.
- A — ASK a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate, advisor or supporter. Your advocate can ask questions that you may not think of while you are ill or under stress.
- K — KNOW what medicines you take and why you take them. Medicine errors are the most common health care mistakes. Ask about the purpose of your medications. Ask about the brand and generic names and ask about possible side effects. If you do not recognize a medication, double check that it is for you. When you are going to receive a new medication, tell your doctor and home care professionals about the allergies you have or negative reactions you have had to medications in the past. If you are taking multiple medications (and most people are), ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to take those medications together.
- U —USE a health care agency that has undergone a rigorous on-site evaluation against established standards, such as established by The Joint Commission.
- P — PARTICIPATE in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of your health care team.