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Patient Safety at Magic
Valley Regional Medical Center
Magic Valley Regional Medical Center strives to ensure that
patients have a safe and positive experience. There is always some risk involved in
most of life's experiences, including a visit to the hospital. MVRMC works
hard to reduce that risk. Falls, allergic reactions, infections,
equipment malfunctions, and medication errors are some of the things that can
happen when visiting a hospital, despite our best efforts. We believe that if patients and hospitals work
together, we can lower the risk of accidents and improve the safety for all
involved. Research shows that patients who are more involved with their care tend
to get better results. Here are some ways you can become involved and help make
your hospital stay as safe as possible.
COMMUNICATION WITH HEALTH CARE
PROVIDERS Communication with your
health care providers is important. Make sure
you understand all aspects of your care; tests, procedures, medications and
other instructions regarding your medical condition. Here
are topics you may want to discuss with your health care providers:
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You may have allergies to certain
medications. Verify all allergy information is written down in your
medical records.
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Inform your health care providers of any
medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications,
over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, dietary/herbal
supplements, laxatives, pain relievers, and sleeping aids, etc.
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Ask any and all questions pertaining to
medication being prescribed to you. Make sure you understand what the
medication is for, the dosage, directions for use, refills, storage,
expiration, and what to do about missed dosages. Discuss any side effects or
warnings associated with the use of the medication and what to do if you
experience side effects. Are there activities, food, drinks, or other
medications you should avoid while taking the medication? Does the
medication need to be taken with water, milk or food?
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Make sure you are clear about any
instructions given when you are leaving for home. Are there special
instructions for care, activities, or medications? Should you schedule
a follow-up appointment? Is there a phone number to call should you
have any questions?
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If you are deaf or hearing impaired, or if
English is not your primary language, ask for an interpreter.
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It is your right to be well-informed,
well-cared for and safe. You have the right to ask for a second
opinion. Seek advice and assessment from another health care provider if you
are not sure or uncomfortable about the care and information you are being
provided with.
YOUR HOSPITAL STAY
First of all, for the best care choose a hospital
that does a high volume of the procedure or surgery for which you are admitted.
Your hospital should be experienced in the procedures or surgery that you are
having performed.
All hospitals work hard to prevent infections
and medical errors, and you can help by taking an active part in that
prevention. Following are some things you, as
a patient, can do to make your hospital stay safe.
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Remind your health care providers of any
allergies you have and make sure the information is in your medical records.
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Ask your health care provider what
medications are, what they do, when they are given and their side effects
before they are given to you.
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Get a flu or pneumonia vaccine before
admission if recommended by the hospital. This can help prevent illness in
high-risk or elderly patients.
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Ask visitors who have colds, respiratory
symptoms or other contagious illnesses not to visit you or anyone in the
hospital. Minimize visits from young children, as they have colds and other
infections more frequently.
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Inform you nurse or another health care
provider if gowns or linens become soiled.
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Remind health care providers to wash their
hands or wear gloves prior to examining you or giving you medication.
MORE PATIENT SAFETY
INFORMATION
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