Patient Safety Initiatives

JMH Patients Encouraged to SPEAK UP

One of the primary patient safety initiatives at Jones Memorial Hospital is encouraging our patients to take an active role in their own health care and SPEAK UP.

Patients can ensure a safer experience with the healthcare system by being involved and informed about their treatment. By asking questions and following through on their doctor's treatment and instructions, patients can take part in the process and gain confidence in the system. Improving patient safety requires continuous learning and the constant communication of information between caregivers, organizations, and patients. You, as the patient, can play a vital role in making your care safe by becoming an active, involved and informed member of your healthcare team. Everyone has a role in patient safety, and everyone will benefit from its success.

What can you do to make sure you have a safer experience with the healthcare system?

S—Speak up if you have questions or concerns, and if you don't understand, ask again. It’s your body and you have the right to know.
P—Pay attention to the care you are receiving. Make sure you’re getting the right treatments and medications by the right health care professionals. Don’t assume anything.
E—Educate yourself about your diagnosis, the medical tests you are undergoing, and your treatment plan.
A—Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.
K—Know what medications you take and why you take them. Medication errors are the most common health care errors.
U—Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of health care organization that has undergone a rigorous on-site evaluation against established state-of-the-art quality and safety standards, such as that provided by Joint Commission.
P—Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the health care team.

Become a more informed healthcare consumer:

• Seek information about illnesses or conditions that affect you.
• Research options and possible treatment plans.
• Choose a doctor, clinic, pharmacy, and hospital experienced in the type of care you require.
• Ask questions of your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or benefits plan coordinator.
• Seek more than one opinion.

Keep track of your history:

• Write down your medical history including any medical conditions you have, illnesses, immunizations, allergies, hospitalizations, all medications and dietary supplements you’re taking, and any reactions or sensitivities you’ve experienced.
• Write down the names and phone numbers of your doctors, clinics, and pharmacies for quick and easy reference.

Work with your doctor and other health care professionals as a team:

• Share your health history with your care team.
• Share up-to-date information about your care with everyone who’s treating you.
• Make sure you understand the care and treatment you’ll be receiving. Ask questions if you’re not clear on your care.
• Pay attention. If something doesn't seem right, call it to the attention of your doctor or health care professional.
• Discuss any concerns about your safety with your healthcare team.
• Don't hesitate to ask your health care provider if they have washed their hands.

Involve a family member or friend in your care:

• If you are not able to observe or participate fully in your care, ask a family member or friend to assist. They can accompany you on appointments or stay with you, help you ask questions, understand care instructions and suggest your preference.

Follow your doctor’s directions:

• Be sure you receive all instructions in writing and that you read and understand them, and have information explained verbally.
• Take medications exactly as prescribed.
• Use home medical equipment and supplies only as instructed.
• Report anything unusual to your doctor.

Whether you are a health consumer at home or a patient in the hospital, your safe care is most important. Get involved in your health care and be a part of the patient safety community.