Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas Patient Guide EASE THE TRANSITION
From Hospital to Home Page 26
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All you need for comfort and care at the end of life
Washington Regional Hospice provides outpatient care in patients’ homes, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. We also provide inpatient care at the Willard Walker Hospice Home, located on Longview Street near Washington Regional Medical Center.
800.Hospice 479.463.7385 wregionalhospice.com
Our goal in our Skilled Nursing Centers is to rehabilitate patients to their optimal state of function and capability. We are able to achieve this through the following Programs and Treatments: • 24-hour Nursing • IV Medications • Enteral Feeding • Pain Management
• Wound Management • Infusion Therapy • Therapeutic Recreation • Patient/Family Education
• Community Re-entry • Counseling/Planning • Hospice • Physical Therapy
• Speech Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Outpatient Therapy
We offer in-house, seven-day-a-week therapy services tailored to each resident’s needs, helping them achieve their highest level of independence and ensuring a smooth transition home. We accept Managed Care, Medicare, Medicare Replacement, Medicaid, Private Pay, and Worker’s Compensation.
670 Rogers Road • Bella Vista, AR 72715
2600 North 22nd Street • Rogers, AR 72756
www.highlandrehab.com
www.ashleyrehab.com
479-876-1847
479-899-6778
UNKNOWN
Other people may be there to help us, teach us, guide us along our path, but the lesson to be learned is always ours.
In This Guide
Mail and Flowers 12 Welcome to Mercy 2 Patient Meals 13 Our Commitment to Care 3 Subway 13 What is a Hospitalist? 4-5 Vending Machines 13 Your Satisfaction 6 Pastoral Care 13 Rapid Response Team 7 Cafeteria and Coffee Bar 13 Admission & During Your Stay 8-13 Speak Up 14 Overnight Visitors 8 Visitor Information 8 Your Rights & Responsibilities 15-17 17-20 Your Hospital Bed 9 Advance Directives Bed Sores/Skin Ulcers 9 Durable Power of Attorney Calling Your Nurse 9 for Health Care 21 Your Room 9 Living Will Declaration 22 Valuables 10 Artificial Nutrition and Hydration 23 Assistive Devices/Translators 10 Your Privacy & Information 24-25 Telephone 10 26-27 Hospital Safe 10 Don’t Leave Until… Lost and Found 10 Preparing to Leave 28-29 Medications from Home 10 the Hospital TV 10 TV Channel Listing 11 Telephone Directory 11 ATM 12 Gift Shop 12 Smoking 12 Fire Safety 12 Electrical Appliances 12
If You Have No Insurance For the Caregiver Giving Back
Physician & Clinic Guide Crossword Sudoku My Medications
29 30 31 32-33 34 35 36
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Welcome to Mercy Mission Statement As the Sisters of Mercy before us, we bring to life the healing ministry of Jesus through our compassionate care and exceptional service.
Vision We are the people of Mercy Health Ministry. Together, we are pioneering a new model of care. We will relentlessly pursue our goal to get healthcare right. Everywhere and every way that Mercy serves, we will deliver a transformative health experience.
OUR ADDRESS 2710 Rife Medical Ln. Rogers, AR 72758 479-338-8000
Thank you for allowing us to serve you at Mercy. Your care, comfort and safety while you are a patient are very important to us. We want you to feel comfortable and welcome throughout your stay. Our professionally trained nurses, technicians, pharmacists and support staff will work closely with your physician in caring for you. Please feel free to talk to your physician or nurse if you have issues with your medical treatment or personal care. We are here to serve you and we want to exceed your expectations. I would like to have your feedback regarding your stay or visit to Mercy. You may receive a phone call or email asking about your experience. Your feedback will help us know if we need to improve, and also to reward and recognize those staff members who made a difference while you were here. I welcome your comments and suggestions. While the contents of this patient guide primarily pertain to an inpatient stay, many important elements throughout the guide also could be helpful to outpatients, clinic patients, future inpatients, and friends and family members assisting or accompanying patients. Our goal is to provide you the highest quality care and service in every Mercy facility. Please let me know if I can be of any service to you by calling Administration at 479-338-2903. Sincerely, Eric Pianalto President
Core Values Our values are shared by coworkers throughout our ministry. They guide our decisions, actions and behaviors. They are deeply ingrained in our beliefs and are considered non-negotiable. Dignity– We cherish each person as created in the image of God. Justice– We pledge to be in right
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relationship with one another, with a particular concern for the economically poor. Service– We seek out and put the needs of others first. Excellence– We give only the best for those entrusted to our care. Stewardship– We wisely use our talents and resources to strengthen Mercy as a ministry of the Church.
Our Commitment to Care Our goal is to provide the best patient care. If at any time you have questions or concerns about the quality of care that you or a family member is receiving or has received at our hospital, do not hesitate to speak with your nurse or the nursing supervisor. If you feel that your issue wasn’t resolved, please contact the nurse executive or the director of customer relations at 479-338-2903. You may call at any time during or after your stay. We hope to have the opportunity to address any concern you may have. In addition, you have the right to file a complaint or concern with one or more of the following: The Arkansas Department of Health 5800 West 10th St. Suite 400 Little Rock, AR 72204 501-661-2201 Office of Quality and Patient Safety The Joint Commission One Renaissance Blvd. Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 1-800-994-6610 Email: patientsafetyreport@jointcommission.org
Ethics Committee When a healthcare choice also involves an ethical concern—such as a family member’s wish to refuse lifesustaining treatment, or a disagreement between family members or other caregivers concerning advance directives— decision-making can become overwhelming. Our Ethics Committee is available to hear such concerns. Requests for a consultation may be made by the patient, a family member, physician, nurse or other staff member. To find out more, or to request a consultation, call 479-338-2903.
QIO–Quality Improvement Organization Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care/Kepro 1-844-430-9504 Child Abuse Hotline/Central Intake 1-800-482-5964 Adult Protective Services Hotline 1-800-482-8049 Your Opinion Counts Soon after your discharge, you may receive a confidential phone call or email asking about your stay. Please take the time to complete the survey. Your feedback is an important part of our goal of improving the care and services we provide.
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What is a Hospitalist? When will I see the hospitalist? Chances are you met one of us when you were admitted to the hospital. We see each of our patients every day, although not necessarily at the same time each day. And while we will see patients with the most urgent medical needs first, we always strive to be available to help with a problem.
A hospitalist is an internist who specializes in hospital medicine. Whether you have a chronic medical problem that has become acutely worse or a new medical problem, the Hospitalist Program at Mercy Medical Center will make a diagnosis, treat your condition and coordinate the care to make your stay as short and pleasant as possible.
Why a Hospitalist?
There are many reasons why your personal doctor has decided to allow you to see a hospitalist: 1. Availability – The hospitalist service at Mercy covers the patients in the hospital 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This allows us to see you during times when your regular doctor is in clinic or unavailable. 2. Rapid Response – The constant presence of a hospitalist allows quick response to any emergent situation that my arise. Also, any changes in treatment plans can be decided quickly and implemented with constant review of ongoing lab work. 3. Communication – We are committed to providing you with personalized, compassionate and timely care in the spirit of service, including speaking with you and your family at your convenience. 4. Expertise – People are coming to the hospital more acutely ill than in the past. Medical advances have increased the complexity of care by allowing for more treatment options. As specialists in hospital medicine, you can be assured that our experience in caring for patients with similar problems will allow you to have a high level of confidence in our care.
Will my doctor know why I am in the hospital?
The hospitalist service at Mercy goes to great lengths to keep in touch with your personal physician. They will be informed that you are in the hospital and given a summary of your care. We also will arrange a follow-up appointment with the necessary doctors so we can ensure your continued care.
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ALBERT EINSTEIN 1879-1955
Truth is what stands the test of experience.
Your Satisfaction We encourage your feedback to improve care. Your healthcare is our priority. To determine where
improvements are needed, this hospital takes part in the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Health Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. The HCAHPS survey measures your satisfaction with the quality of your care. It is designed to be a standardized tool for measuring and reporting satisfaction across all hospitals in the U.S. After you are released from the hospital, you may be selected to participate in the HCAHPS phone survey. The survey asks multiple choice questions about your hospital stay. Please take the time to complete the HCAHPS survey; your feedback is valuable!
What is HCAHPS?
The HCAHPS survey is backed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The survey is used to improve the quality of healthcare. HCAHPS makes survey results public so hospitals are aware of where changes are needed. The results also enable healthcare consumers to review and compare hospitals before choosing a healthcare provider.
You are part of the team COMMUNICATE It’s your health; don’t be afraid to ask your doctors and nurses questions. PARTICIPATE You are the center of your healthcare team so ask questions, understand your treatment plan and medications, and communicate with your doctors and nurses. APPRECIATE There are hundreds of people in the hospital who need help; please be patient as doctors and nurses attend to everyone.
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n
Hospital Compare
is a government website that allows users to compare the quality of care provided by hospitals. The information provided on this website is based on HCAHPS survey results. www.medicare.gov/ hospitalcompare n
The Joint Commission
has created quality and safety standards for healthcare organizations. The Joint Commission reviews, accredits, and certifies healthcare organizations that meet its high standards. Quality reports for all accredited organizations are available on its website. www.qualitycheck.org
We want your stay to be excellent. Please ask to speak to a nursing supervisor at any time if you have any concerns about your care or service.
Rapid Response Team Mercy Hospital, like many hospitals nationally, is focusing on eliminating problems that affect optimal patient care. As a result, a Rapid Response Team is available for immediate response when called for assistance.
When the Rapid Response Team is called:
Please notify your nurse, the charge nurse on your floor, the house supervisor, or ask to speak to your physician whenever there is a noticeable change in the patient’s condition that needs immediate attention and the healthcare team is not recognizing or addressing the concern. Warning signs that a patient is getting worse: n Changes in the heart or respiratory (breathing) rate n A drop in blood pressure n Changes in urinary output (much more or much less urine) n Change in level of consciousness n Any time you are worried about the patient When a Rapid Response is activated, a team of medical professionals will arrive in your room to assess the situation. The Rapid Response Team consists of the nursing manager of the unit, your nurse, the nursing supervisor and other medical professionals. Please contact the nursing supervisor at 479-338-1488 or Administration at 479-338-2903 at any time if you have concerns on how care is being given, managed or planned.
What is the Rapid Response Team? The Rapid Response Team is a group of specially trained individuals who bring critical-care expertise to the patient. The purpose of the team is to quickly check the condition of the patient and provide help before there is a medical emergency. Please alert any caregiver immediately if you have concerns about a change in a patient’s condition. You also may call the nursing supervisor at 479-338-1488 for continued concerns.
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Upon Admission Personal Identification An identification band placed on your wrist at the time of admission will serve as a personal identification check whenever you have a test, receive medication or go to surgery. For your safety, you are required to wear this identification bracelet until you are discharged from the hospital.
Consent Forms
You will be asked to sign a general consent form giving the hospital or other providers permission to perform routine treatment, tests or procedures, such as lab and X-ray. For more complicated procedures that your doctor might order, you will be asked to sign a more specific consent. In most cases, parents and legal guardians must sign for minors and mentally impaired individuals. If you do not understand the procedure or test, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor to further discuss the risks, benefits and alternatives available to you.
During Your Stay Overnight Visitors The patient’s nurse should be made aware if a visitor wants to remain overnight with a patient.
We have policies and procedures in place to help you and your family work with our doctors, nurses and staff to get the most from your hospital stay. Please take a few minutes to review these guidelines with your loved ones.
Visitor Guidelines
We encourage visitors for emotional support and recovery. To provide a restful and safe environment, we ask that all visitors comply with the following guidelines: n Children must be under close adult supervision at all times while visiting. Children may be restricted from certain areas in the hospital to protect vulnerable patients from infection. n Please do not sit on the patient’s bed. n Please be considerate of other patients by keeping noise to a minimum. n Please refrain from visiting if you have a cold, sore throat or any contagious disease. n Please do not bring food in to patients unless this has been prearranged and approved by their physician. 8
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n Please observe no visiting and precaution signs before
entering the room. n Do not smoke. n Please leave the room during tests or treatments if asked. n Visitors are asked to engage in mutual consideration and respect by maintaining civil language and conduct in interactions with staff and caregivers. Coworkers will alert the nursing supervisor, Facilities Services, or 911 if a visitor exhibits threatening, suspicious or abusive behavior and/or profane language. Visitors may be given the opportunity to change their behavior, if appropriate, or asked to leave the premises. Local law enforcement may be engaged whenever necessary. n Visitors with special needs should alert any nurse or coworker. Accommodations will be provided whenever possible.
Your Hospital Bed
Your bed has an electrical control enabling you to raise or lower the foot or head for comfort. Some of your side rails may be placed up at night or after you have been given medication that could affect your sense of balance. Although it may seem unnecessary as you begin to feel better, we encourage you to use the side rails and call for assistance when getting out of bed.
Your Room Your room includes a bedside stand for your belongings and an over-bed table. Please feel free to contact any caregiver for special requests, such as reading material or a morning newspaper, that you may desire. Should your remote control not work appropriately, if an item needs to be repaired, or if your room temperature is not easily regulated, we encourage you to tell your caregivers, or call Plant Services by dialing 0 and requesting a maintenance worker.
Bed Sores/Skin Ulcers
Our caregivers are committed to working to prevent skin breakdown for all patients at Mercy. Skin breakdown can occur on patients of all ages, and we want to work with patients and families for prevention. Please ask caregivers about appropriate turning of patients who may not be able to do this themselves, and for measures to keep heels off the bed.
Calling Your Nurse
Your nurse call button rings at the nurses’ station and on your nurses phone and can be answered by intercom. There also is a nurse call button in your bathroom should you require assistance. www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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During Your Stay Assistive Devices/Translators
As a patient, or one giving consent, should you need a translator or have sensory or speaking disabilities, we will arrange for you to receive all necessary and appropriate information about healthcare services in a form acceptable to you. Communication aids for our patients are provided without cost. Please contact your caregivers about these services.
Telephone
Leave Your Valuables At Home If you have valuables, such as jewelry, credit cards and cash, please give them to a relative or friend to take care of during your stay.
Glasses and Dentures Store your contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures in containers labeled with your name and place them in a drawer in your bedside table when not in use. Please don’t wrap them in paper or place them on your bed or food tray—they may be damaged or lost. Mercy cannot be responsible for replacement of personal belongings.
Telephones are provided in all patient rooms. To place a local call, dial 9 + the number. For long-distance calls, dial 9 + 0. Long-distance calls may not be billed to the hospital.
Hospital Safe
If you cannot send your valuables home, please speak with your admissions representative or nurse about storing them in the hospital safe. You will be given an itemized receipt and claim ticket. Mercy cannot be responsible for any valuables left in your room.
Lost and Found
Please call 479-338-1490 for the hospital’s housekeeping supervisor if you’ve lost or found an item.
Medications from Home
Please do not bring any medications (prescription, over-thecounter or illegal drugs) to the hospital. All medications you take while a patient at Mercy have been prescribed by your physician, dispensed by the hospital pharmacy and administered by a trained professional. Patients are not permitted to administer their own medications or to keep personal medications, unless approved by their physician. Your nurse will ask you questions about your past responses to medications and any allergies you may have.
TV
Televisions are provided in each patient room. Please keep the TV volume low and turn off your TV at bedtime. 10
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For everyone’s health and safety, visitors should not use patient bathrooms. TV Channel Listing 2 TBS 3 QVC 4 CW (KHOG-DT-2, Fayetteville) 5 CBS (KFSM-DT-1, Fort Smith) 6 Daystar (KWOG-DT, Springdale) 7 ABC (KHOG-DT-1, Fayetteville) 8 FOX (KFTA, Fort Smith) 9 NBC (KNWA, Rogers) 10 CBS (KOLR, Springfield) 11 UNV (KWNL-CA, Winslow) 12 ABC (KTUL-DT-1, Tulsa) 13 PBS (AETN-1, Fayetteville) 15 WGN 17 C-SPAN 19 HSN 20 Retro TV (KPBI-DT-1, Eureka Springs) 23 USA 24 ESPN2 25 ESPN 26 FX 27 FOX Sports Southwest 28 Discovery Channel 29 TNT 30 A&E 31 AMC 32 CNN 33 CNBC 34 The Weather Channel
35 Lifetime 36 E! 37 MTV 38 VH1 39 Cardinals Baseball 40 CMT 41 Animal Planet 42 Disney Channel 43 TV Land 44 Nickelodeon 45 HLN 46 ION Television 47 Travel Channel 48 TLC 49 HGTV 50 truTV 51 Fox News 52 Freeform 53 Cartoon Network 54 Food Network 55 History Channel 56 BET 57 MSNBC 58 Versus 59 Outdoor Channel 60 Speed Channel 61 Spike TV 62 Bravo 63 Syfy 64 Galavisión 65 Comedy Central 70 Turner Classic Movies 75 National Geographic 76 FOX Sports SW Plus 97 TV Guide
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY Main Number 479-338-8000 Patient Information/ Lobby 479-338-2949 Mercy Hospital Gift Shop 479-338-2106 Mercy Hospital Medical Records 479-338-3482 Mercy Clinic Medical Records 479-338-5563 Pastoral Care 479-338-8000; ask to speak to a chaplain Mercy Doctor Finder 1-888-338-3885 Mercy Hospital Billing 479-338-3454 Mercy Clinic Billing 479-986-8500
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During Your Stay Gift Shop The hospital’s gift shop is located in the main lobby and offers many nice gift items, miscellaneous personal items, cards, snacks and flowers. We invite you to visit the shop to pick up a gift or snack, or to just visit with our friendly volunteers. Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
ATM For your convenience, an automated teller machine (ATM) is located in the cafeteria on the first floor.
Smoking
Smoking and/or the use of any tobacco products is not permitted anywhere in the hospital or on hospital grounds, including the parking areas. If needed, please speak with your physician regarding alternative measures.
Fire Safety
Fire drills are performed periodically, so do not be alarmed if a drill is announced. Do not use elevators or stairways until you hear the all clear. Remain calm and follow directions given by hospital staff. Staff will determine when to remove visitors and patients, if necessary.
Electrical Appliances
For your protection, electrical devices brought into the hospital should be inspected by a nursing coworker before being used by a patient. Personal electric blankets, heating pads and fans are prohibited in the hospital.
Mail and Flowers
Mail and packages will be delivered to you by a hospital volunteer. Any mail received after your discharge will be forwarded to your home address. Florists deliver directly to patient rooms. Please note that flowers are prohibited in intensive care units. 12
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Outgoing mail may be taken to the nursing station or given to your attending nurse. Postage stamps are available in the gift shop.
Patient Meals
Special diets and diet counseling may be prescribed by your physician as a part of your treatment. You will make your daily diet selections from a menu that corresponds with your dietary requirements. If you have questions or concerns regarding your diet, ask your nurse to arrange for a dietitian to visit with you.
Subway
We are proud to offer Subway as an option for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, including weekends.
Vending Machines
Vending machines offering beverages and snacks are located in the cafeteria area. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Pastoral Care
Mercy’s Pastoral Care chaplains are available to help meet the nonmedical needs of patients by offering spiritual and emotional support, encouragement, comfort, consolation and prayer. A Catholic priest chaplain is available to administer the sacraments to Catholic inpatients. Please contact a hospital chaplain for information about Mass in the St. Mary’s Chapel located on the first floor of Mercy Hospital. Please let any staff member know if you want a visit from a priest or a Mercy chaplain, or if you would like your minister contacted while you are an inpatient at the hospital. You also may call 479-338-8000 and ask to visit with a chaplain.
WHERE’S THE CAFETERIA? LOCATION First floor Visitors are welcome to dine in the cafeteria. HOURS: Posted by the cafeteria
Coffee Bar The gourmet coffee bar is located on the first floor.
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FRANCIS BACON
Who questions much, shall learn much, and retain much.
Speak Up! Take charge of your care. During your stay, the doctors, nurses and staff of
your hospital will treat you and your family as partners in your own care. One important way that you can be involved is to speak up. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and don’t be afraid to raise any issues relating not only to your care and treatment, but also to overall hospital services. In the pages that follow, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making the most of your hospital stay—how to stay safe, get the information you need, ask the right questions and interact effectively with your doctors, nurses and hospital staff.
STEP UP & SPEAK UP SPEAK UP: Ask questions and voice concerns.
Remember:
It’s your body, and you have a right to know.
n
PAY ATTENTION: Make sure you’re getting the right treatments and medicines. EDUCATE YOURSELF: Learn about the medical tests you get and your treatment plan.
FIND AN ADVOCATE: Pick a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate or support person. WHAT MEDS & WHY: Know what medicines
rite down any questions W you have n Choose a support person to communicate with the doctors and staff n K eep a list of doctors you see and the meds they prescribe
Don’t Get Overwhelmed, Write It Down!
you take and why you take them.
CHECK BEFORE YOU GO: Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of healthcare organization that meets The Joint Commission’s quality standards. PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CARE: You are the center of the healthcare team.
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Courtesy of The Joint Commission.
Rights & Responsibilities In an environment of Christian hospitality, it is our expressed intent to respect the dignity of each individual who comes to us for care. We live this intention out by acknowledging the following Patient Rights and Responsibilities:
You and/or your legally authorized representative has the right to:
n reasonable access to care that is within
the hospital’s capacity, its stated mission and philosophy, and relevant laws and regulations. n have a family member or representative and personal physician notified promptly upon admission to the hospital. n be informed of the name of the your attending physician, as well as the names of other physicians or practitioners who will provide your care, treatment, and services. n an environment that preserves dignity and contributes to a positive self-image. n a telephone in a private setting, mail service, visitors, personal clothing and possessions, etc., unless restricted due to safety, security, or therapeutic purposes. (Please note that valuables should be sent home, as the hospital is not responsible for any loss.) n care that is considerate and respectful of your cultural and personal values, beliefs, and preferences, and without discrimination based on age, race, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. n designate a decision maker in case you are unable to communicate your wishes regarding care or if you are incapable of
understanding a proposed treatment or procedure. n have visitors, family members and/or other people of your choosing present, as safety, hospital/department policy, and provider discretion allow. Visitors will not be restricted on the basis of any discriminatory factor. n be free from any form of restraints unless medically necessary. n religious or other spiritual services. n be informed about and participate in decisions regarding your care, including management of pain. n to be free from all forms of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or harassment. n to have access to an interpreter or other communication aid so you understand your plan of care. n receive education so as to understand pain management as a necessary part of your treatment if appropriate. n security, personal privacy, and confidentiality of information. n access, request amendment to, and obtain information on disclosures of your health information, in accordance with law and regulation. n participate in ethical questions that arise in the course of care, including issues of conflict resolution, advance directives, withholding resuscitative services, foregoing or withdrawing lifesustaining treatment, care at the end of life, and participation in investigational studies or clinical trials. n refuse treatment to the extent that law provides and to be informed of the medical consequences of this action. n access protective and advocacy services. www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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Rights & Responsibilities n formulate advance directives and appoint a
surrogate to make healthcare decisions on your behalf to the extent permitted by law. n expect timely resolution of concerns expressed to caregivers about hospitality, care and service. n express concerns and ask for information about the hospital’s mechanism for the initiation, review, resolution of, and response to patient complaints. You may file a complaint/ grievance by calling 479-338-3353 or by writing to Mercy Hospital, 2710 Rife Medical Ln., Rogers, AR 72758. n receive a written response to concerns or grievances about patient care, abuse, or neglect that are not able to be resolved at the time of complaint. n file complaints concerning noncompliance with advance directives or to lodge a grievance with the Arkansas Department of Health by calling 501-661-2201, or writing to 5800 W. 10th St., Little Rock, AR 72204. Persons may also contact the Joint Commission’s Office of Quality Monitoring to report concerns or register complaints by calling 1-800-994-6610 or emailing patientsafetyreport@ jointcommission.org. Complaints regarding quality of care or premature discharge may be reported to the QIO - Quality Improvement Organization, Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care/ Kepro at 1-844-430-9504.
As a patient, you and your visitors’ responsibilities are: n to provide accurate and complete
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information about present complaints and medical history so your caregivers may adequately provide care, treatment, and services. n to notify your physician or nurse if you do not understand your diagnosis, treatment, prognosis or what is expected of you to comply with your treatment plan. n to cooperate with the treatment plan recommended for you by your physician and other healthcare professionals. n to report changes in your condition to your nurse and physician. n to support mutual consideration and respect by maintaining civil language and conduct in interactions with staff and caregivers. n to be considerate of the rights of other patients and hospital personnel, and assist in the control of noise. n to abide by the hospital policies, rules and regulations, with particular concern for safety, infection control, and confidentiality, in order to support quality care and a safe environment of all individuals in the hospital. n to accept the financial obligation associated with your care or make known your eligibility for charitable care. n In our commitment to discriminationfree services and affiliations in accordance with the requirements of Title VI & VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991, MHS-NWA will directly or through contractual or
other arrangements admit and treat all people without regard to gender, race, color, religion, national origin, disability or age. All your rights as a healthcare consumer also apply to the person who may have legal responsibility to make decisions regarding your healthcare. Mercy’s mission and philosophy is
reflected in the actions of physicians, coworkers and volunteers. In keeping with the mission of the organization, the social teachings of the Catholic Church and our own organizational values and beliefs, we uphold the rights of patients to participate to the fullest extent possible with regard to their personal treatment in all aspects of care, including the management of pain and suffering.
Advance Directives Living Wills and Healthcare Proxies under Arkansas Law
Under Arkansas law, an individual has the right to accept or refuse treatment. When an individual is terminally ill or permanently unconscious, it can be difficult or impossible to make decisions of this magnitude. Accordingly, the Arkansas Legislature developed and passed laws regarding the form and formality by which an individual can make these advance directives or declarations regarding what medical care one should receive if he or she is terminally ill or permanently unconscious.
Summary of Arkansas Law - Definitions
Attending Physician–The physician who has primary care of the patient. Life-Sustaining Treatment–Any medical procedure serving only to prolong the process of dying or to maintain permanent unconsciousness.
Qualified Patient–A patient 18 years of age or older who has made a living will declaration or appointed a healthcare proxy and has been determined by the attending physician to be in a terminal condition or permanently unconscious state. Terminal Condition–An incurable and irreversible condition that, without the administration of life-sustaining treatment, will, in the opinion of the attending physician, result in death within a relatively short period of time. Permanently Unconscious–A lasting condition, without change, in which thought, feeling, sensation and awareness of self and environment are absent. Declaration–An individual 18 years or older and of sound mind can execute a declaration governing the withholding of life-sustaining treatment. The declaration should be signed by the individual and two witnesses. A healthcare provider who is given a copy of the declaration www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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Advance Directives should make it a part of the individual’s medical record. Revocation–A declaration can be revoked at any time and in any manner. A revocation is effective when communicated. The healthcare provider should make the revocation part of the medical record. Treatment of the Patient–Nothing in this law affects the physician or healthcare providers’ responsibility to provide treatment, including nutrition and hydration, for the individual’s comfort, care or alleviation of pain. A declaration by an individual cannot be given effect if the individual is pregnant and life-sustaining treatment might permit a live birth. Physician Compliance–An attending physician who is unwilling to comply with an individual’s declaration shall transfer the patient to another physician.
for healthcare is another type of advance directive.
What is a Living Will?
A living will is a document that tells medical professionals and members of your family to what extent special means should or should not be used to keep your body alive if you are incurably ill or permanently unconscious. It allows you to tell others your healthcare choices in the event that you are unable to express your wishes.
Why Should I Have a Living Will?
A living will gives you a voice in decisions about your medical care when you are unconscious or too ill to communicate. As long as you are able to express your own wishes, your advance directive will not be used and you can accept or refuse any medical treatment. But if you are unable to participate in What Are Advance Directives? decisions about your own treatment, a You have the right to make decisions living will becomes important to ensure about the care you want at the end of that your personal wishes are respected. your life. If you are conscious and able to Also, by preparing a living will, you can make your own decisions when the time relieve those closest to you of the burden comes, you will be able to decide whether and stress of trying to guess what your the doctor should withdraw treatment wishes might be at a very emotional time. and when that should happen. It is when you do not have the ability to make or When Does A explain your own decisions that you need Living Will Become Effective? what is called an advance directive. An Your living will will become effective advance directive is a legal document in only when you are unable to make or which you tell your choices for medical communicate decisions about your care treatment or name someone to make and are terminally ill with no hope of medical decisions for you when you recovery or permanently unconscious. cannot. A living will is a type of advance directive. A durable power of attorney 18
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Dialysis Centers of Northwest Arkansas, LLC
Board-Certified Nephrologists John Chris Hey, M.D. Michael Moulton, M.D. Avin Rekhi, M.D. John Wu, M.D.
Incenter Hemodialysis • Peritoneal Dialysis • Home Dialysis Training • Home Hemodialysis
North Hills Dialysis Center (479) 463-7000 Dialysis Center of Siloam Springs (479) 524-5214
Benton County Dialysis Center (479) 273-7340 Northwest Arkansas Home Dialysis Clinic (479) 463-7023
At Rogers Health and Rehabilitation, we are committed to creating an environment that makes our residents feel right at home. Residents and their families have peace of mind knowing they are safe and well cared for by a dedicated and compassionate team. Comforts to enhance your stay include… “Uniting Our Family With Yours”
1149 W. New Hope Road
479-636-6290
t Short-Term
t 24-Hour
t
Rehabilitation Outpatient Rehabilitation t Long-Term Care t Respite Care t Hospice Care t Wound Care
t
Pharmacy Services Nutritional Services t Laundry/Housekeeping Service t Transportation Service t Beauty/Barber Shop t State-of-the-Art Therapy Gym
Losing weight’s a lot harder than gaining it… but very much worth the effort.
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It’s not easy. But it is worth it.
Learn how you can help stop diabetes by losing weight, eating healthy and staying active. Visit checkupamerica.org or call 1-800-DIABETES.
o
24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, WE ARE HERE.
The American Cancer Society is there for you to help answer your questions, connect you to the resources you need, and just listen.
24 /7
Information We can answer your questions about cancer, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment options, and clinical trials.
Day-to-day Help HOPE
We can help you with everyday needs like transportation and lodging during treatment.
Emotional Support We can connect you to local and online support groups for both patients and caregivers.
We’re here to help you through every step of your cancer experience. Visit www.cancer.org or call 1-800-227-2345 anytime, day or night.
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS PATHOLOGY ASSOCIATES, PA
serving northwest arkansas for over 25 years www.nwapath.com
(479) 442-0144 Anthony N. Hui, MD Thomas J. Simmons, MD cytopathology
Saran Kraichoke, MD
Thomas F. Whiteside, MD Lizhen Gui, MD, PhD Lucas K. Campbell, MD gastrointestinal and liver pathology
Gregory A. McKenzie, MD
Roger L. Fink, MD
hematopathology
Brad R. Dilday, MD
dermatopathology
K. Drake Branch, MD
Diplomates, American Board of Pathology
479-253-7038 235 Huntsville Road Eureka Springs, AR 72632 “Leaders in Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitative Therapy”
• 24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Private Accommodations • Clinical Professionals Focused on Getting Your Loved One Back Home • Full Team of Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists • Dedicated Staff to Care for Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease • Five-Star Rating from Centers of Medicare & Medicaid for 2014, 2015 & 2016
brightonridgeeurekasprings.com
Are you a current smoker or have smoked in the past? A FREE lung cancer screening may be right for you.
Call 479-695-0081 www.ScreenForLungCancer.com
Screenings are free, painless and could save your life.
The specialists needed to diagnose and treat lung cancer...
in place. one place. Close to home. AllAll in one Close to home. The specialists needed to diagnose and treat lung cancer... The specialists needed to diagnose and treat lung cancer...
The specialists needed diagnoseand andtreat treatlung lungcancer... cancer... TheThe specialists to to diagnose The Center forCare Chest Care The day of your visit, the Center forneeded Chest The day of your visit, the to home. provides multidisciplinary care multidisciplinary team evaluates provides multidisciplinary care Close multidisciplinary team evaluates Closetoto home. Close home.
All one place. Allinin inone oneplace. place. All for patients with known or for patients with known or
and discusses your case. Each
and discusses your case. Each The Centercancer for Chest Carelung The day ofcontributes your visit, the suspected of the physician The Center for Chest Care care The day of your visit, the provides multidisciplinary multidisciplinary team evaluates and chest. his expertise to suspected of the lung physician contributes The provides Center for Chest cancer Care The day of your visit, the multidisciplinary multidisciplinary team evaluates for patients with known orcare and discusses your case. Each provides multidisciplinary care multidisciplinary team evaluates each patient’s for patients withclinic known ormake and discusses your case. Each and chest. his expertise to The goal ofcancer this is to suspected of the lung physician contributes for patients with known or lung and discusses your case. Each individualized plan. suspected of the physician contributes and chest. cancer his expertise to the diagnosis and treatment of suspected cancer of the lung physician contributes and chest. his to are each patient’s As aexpertise result, you each patient’s The goal of this to make cancer ofofthe lung andis chest goal this clinic toclinic make is and The chest. hisconsidered expertise to each patient’s for plan. all individualized plan. individualized The goal of this clinic is to make A World-Class Multidisciplinary an easier process. Thisand is done, the diagnosis and treatment of each patient’s the treatment ofyouplan. individualized treatment As a result, are The the goal ofdiagnosis this clinic is to chest makeof diagnosis and treatment Lung Cancer and Lung Nodule Clinic cancer of the lung and in part, by eliminating multiple individualized As a result, you are plan. As a result, you are considered for all the diagnosis and treatment of and chest options cancer of process. the andlung chest cancer oflung the A World-Class Multidisciplinary an easier This is done visits to multiple specialists forare all Asconsidered a result, you A World-Class treatment considered for all an easier process. is done cancer of the lung andThis chest Lung Cancer andMultidisciplinary Lung Nodule Clinic including in part by eliminating multiple treatment scattered throughout the region. an easier process. Thisconsidered isoptions donefor all Lung Cancer andMultidisciplinary Lung Nodule Clinic A World-Class in part by eliminating multiple an easier process. This is done clinical visits to multiple specialists treatment Lung Cancer and Lung Nodule Clinic options treatment including visits to multiple specialists in part by eliminating multiple in part by eliminating multiple Patients appreciate the ease and scattered throughout the region. research including clinical throughout the region. options options visitsscattered to multiple specialists convenience of having to including trials. clinical Patients appreciate the access easespecialists and visits to multiple research scattered throughout the region. Patients appreciate the ease and all of their doctors in one place,to clinical research including convenience of having access trials. scattered throughout region. convenience ofwell having access to the trials. at one time, as being Patients theinas ease andable all ofappreciate their doctors one place, research clinical all of their doctors inas one place, at time, as well being convenience of having access toable trials. to one remain close to home. at one time, as well as being able Patients appreciate research remain close toone home. all ofto their doctors in place, the ease and to remain close to home. at one time, as well as being able convenience of having access to trials. to remain close to home.
Schedule Your
Schedule Your Consultation Schedule Your Consultation Schedule Your Consultation 479.751.8765 Consultation 479.751.8765
all of their doctors in one place,
479.751.8765 479.751.8765
Peachtree Village of Farmington Retirement Living that feels like home Services Include: • 3 Meals Daily • Grooming Assistance • 24-Hour Staff • Medication Assistance • Bathing Assistance • Local Scheduled Transportation Assisted Living Level 1
Peachtree isn’t a way of living, it’s a way of life 55 W. Rainsong • Farmington, AR 72730
(479) 267-3335
Destiny Sandoval – Administrator adminfarm@peachtreevillage.org
THE AGING EXPERTS
Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas
1410 SE 14th St. 4332 N. Waterside Ct. Bentonville, AR 72712 Fayetteville, AR 72703 479-273-9424 479-442-5194
Do you have Questions or need Services for Senior Adults? • • • • • • •
In-Home Services • Senior Activity Centers Long-Term Care Ombudsman Home-Delivered Meals Family Caregiver Assistance Case Management Personal Emergency Response System Housing • Incontinence Supplies 800-432-9721 • www.aaanwar.org
Spot a Stroke
F. A. S. T. Face.
Arm.
Speech. Time to call 911.
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Rehab That Gets You Home We are a long-term care and skilled nursing facility. All beds are dually certified. We have a therapy room providing physical, occupational, and speech therapies 7 days a week. We have semi-private and private rooms at our facility. Katherine’s Place has an enclosed courtyard, as well.
4405 W. Persimmon St. Fayetteville, AR 72704
Phone (479)444-6108 Fax (479)444-1403
You Come First YOUR Needs • YOUR Decisions • YOUR Schedules • YOUR Choices
We can help you for a few hours or 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! All of our caregivers are:
Trained • Experienced Supervised • Insured Background Checked • Bonded
Licensed Medicaid Agency VA Accepted Insurance Accepted
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1990
• • • • •
Companionship Errands/Shopping Light Housekeeping Medication Reminders Meal Preparation
• • • • •
Assist with Daily Activities Overnight Care Respite Care Private Duty Much, much more!
Toll-Free: 877-716-9482 www.prnmedstaff.net 4400 South Thompson St. Springdale, AR 72764
479-756-8701
6:00am GET BATH READY FOR DAD 6:30am PACK LUNCH FOR THE
KIDS 10:00am GIVE DAD HIS MEDICINE 1:00pm FOLD EVERYONE’S LAUNDRY 2:00pm SORT DAD’S BILLS 3:30pm PICK UP THE KIDS 4:20pm TAKE DAD OUT FOR FRESH AIR 5:30pm REMEMBER THE DAYS WHEN DAD TOOK CARE OF ME 6:00pm MAKE DINNER 8:00pm HELP DAD TO BED 11:00pm FINALLY GO TO SLEEP
Only those who care for others know what it’s really like to care for others. That’s why AARP created a community with experts and other caregivers to help us better care for ourselves and for the ones we love.
aarp.org/caregiving or call 1-877-333-5885
Keep your original advance directive documents with you at home and make the location known to someone close to you. Does A Living Will Mean I am Giving Up or Stopping Care?
permanently unable to make decisions. Your healthcare representative must No. Making a living will does not make treatment decisions based on mean that you will be abandoned by your known wishes. A durable power your healthcare providers. A living will of attorney for healthcare must be in affects only measures that are deemed writing, signed by you or another person useless. Doctors and nurses will continue at your direction, and witnessed by attending to your needs, and comfort two other adults. A durable power of care will continue. attorney is included in the living will document mentioned at left. You also How to Make a Living Will may ask your attorney or healthcare A living will must be in writing, provider for a form. signed by you or another person at your direction, and witnessed by two What to Do With Your Living Will other adults. To make a living will, you Keep the original documents in a safe can fill out a form provided by Mercy and easily accessible place, and make an Health System of Northwest Arkansas. extra copy for yourself in case the original Have two other adults witness your is lost or accidentally destroyed. It is signature. If you have decided to name important that your doctor and family a healthcare proxy, fill out the optional members know about your Living Will proxy directive. If you want to donate and have a copy of it. Take your living any organs, you may fill out the organ will and durable power of attorney for donation form also included in the healthcare with you if you are admitted pamphlet. Request your living will forms to the hospital. Please DO NOT file via email at Michelle.Bass@Mercy. your living will in a safety deposit box or Net. You may also call 479-338-3353 to other place where it cannot be accessed. request a form. You also may ask your It is important that your family members attorney or healthcare provider for a or loved ones know in advance about form. It is a good idea to discuss your your living will and have a copy of the healthcare wishes with your loved ones document. and your physician before signing a living will. What If I Change My Mind? Your living will and/or durable power of What is a Durable Power of Attorney attorney for healthcare can be revoked for Healthcare? at any time by telling your doctor and By signing a durable power of attorney family members that your wishes have for healthcare, you can choose another changed. You should tear up and throw person as your representative to away all copies of the document you have make healthcare decisions for you if revoked. you should become temporarily or www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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Advance Directives What if I Choose Not to Have a Living interest. You are strongly encouraged to Will and Have Not Signed a Durable discuss your advanced directive options and decisions with your physician and Power of Attorney for Healthcare? If you do not have a living will or a durable power of attorney for healthcare, then decisions about your care may be made by a surrogate decision-maker, such as certain relatives, a person appointed by a court or a court itself. The surrogate decision-maker must make decisions based on what you would have wanted if you were able to express your decisions, but if you have not made your wishes known, then the surrogate decisionmaker, together with your physician, will make treatment decisions for you based upon their opinions as to your best
family.
NOTE: The form living will and durable power of attorney for Healthcare are being provided to you as a public service. The attached forms are provided as is and are not the substitute for the advice of an attorney. By providing these forms and the advance directive information, Mercy Health System of Northwest Arkansas is not providing legal advice to you. Consult an attorney if you need legal advice of any nature.
Notes _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 20
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DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTH CARE OF ____________________________________________________ [Name of Declarant] Pursuant to the Arkansas Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care Act (Ark. Code Ann.§ 20-13-104) (the “Act”), I hereby designate and appoint _________________ _________________________________as my agent, or attorney in fact, to make decisions regarding my healthcare during periods when my healthcare provider has determined that I lack capacity to decide for myself. Specifically, and not to limit any other rights prescribed under the Act, my attorney-in-fact shall have the power to have access to my medical records for treatment or payment decisions; to disclose medical records to others for purposes of treatment, payment, or healthcare operations; to employ and discharge physicians; to consent to or refuse to consent to medical procedures, including the withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment, and nutrition and hydration, according to my wishes expressed in my Living Will, or, if my wishes are unclear under the then existing circumstances of my medical condition, then upon consideration of my best interests as determined by my physician in consultation with my agent; to admit me to hospitals, including psychiatric hospitals, nursing homes, or hospice care; and to sign all appropriate forms, consents and releases in connection with any of said matters. If ________________________________ resigns, or is not able or available to make healthcare decisions for me, or if an agent named by me is divorced from me or is my spouse and legally separated from me, I appoint as successor, with all of the rights and powers and authority herein stated. The term “healthcare” shall have the meaning set forth in Ark. Code Ann.§ 20-13-104(c). This Durable Power of attorney for Health Care shall not be affected by my subsequent disability or incapacity. SIGNED this _________ day of _____________________________, 20____. ______________________________________________________ Signature We, the undersigned, do hereby certify that the Declarant, ____________________ __________ subscribed this Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care in our presence, and we, at his or her request, in his or her presence, and in the presence of each other, signed as attesting witnesses, and we do further certify that the Declarant appeared to be eighteen years of age or older, of sound mind, and acting without undue influence, fraud or restraint and that his or her signature was voluntary. We, the undersigned, do hereby certify that the Declarant, ______________________ ___________________ subscribed this Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care in our presence, and we, at his or her request, in his or her presence, and in the presence of each other, signed as attesting witnesses, and we do further certify that the Declarant appeared to be eighteen years of age or older, of sound mind, and acting without undue influence, fraud or restraint and that his or her signature was voluntary. ________________________________ ________________________________ Witness Witness ________________________________ ________________________________ Address Address ________________________________ ________________________________ City, State and Zip Code City, State and Zip Code www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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LIVING WILL DECLARATION
If I should have an incurable or irreversible condition with no hope of recovery that will cause my death within a relatively short time, and I am no longer able to make decisions regarding my medical treatment, I direct my attending physician, pursuant to the Common Law and the Arkansas Rights of the Terminally Ill or Permanently Unconscious Act, to withhold or withdraw treatment that only prolongs the process of dying and is not necessary to my comfort or to alleviate pain. Additionally, if I should become permanently unconscious, I direct my attending physician, pursuant to the Arkansas Rights of the Terminally Ill or Permanently Unconscious Act, to withhold or withdraw life sustaining treatments which are no longer necessary for my comfort or to alleviate pain. The life-sustaining treatments which may be withheld or withdrawn are: Antibiotics
Chemotherapy
Blood Products
Respiratory Support
Kidney Dialysis
Invasive Diagnostic Tests
Mechanical Breathing
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Major Surgery
Artificially Administered Feeding and Fluids
Minor Surgery (unless necessary for my comfort or to alleviate pain) Other/Additional Instructions: _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ OPTIONAL ORGAN AND TISSUE DONATION I wish to donate for transplantation and/or medical research the following anatomical gift: Body
Liver
Bone
Lungs
Kidneys
Pancreas
Eyes
Skin
Heart
Heart Valves
All listed
Blood and Tissue Samples for Lab Tests
Other_____________________________________________________________ I do not wish to donate any organs, blood or tissue
Declarant’s Full Name: ________________________________________________ Age: _______ Birth Date: ________________ SSN: _________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: _________________________________________________________
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ARTIFICIAL NUTRITION AND HYDRATION - I understand Arkansas law requires me to make my wishes regarding artificial nutrition and hydration known separately from other declarations. Therefore, by initialing the appropriate line(s) below, I specifically: Direct that artificial nutrition may be withheld or withdrawn after consultation with my attending physician. Direct that artificial hydration may be withheld or withdrawn after consultation with my attending physician. ____________________________________________________________________
We, the undersigned, do hereby certify that the Declarant, ___________________________________________________________________
subscribed this Declaration of Living Will in our presence, and we, at his or her request, in his or her presence, and in the presence of each other, signed as attesting witnesses, and we do further certify that the Declarant appeared to be eighteen years of age or older, of sound mind, and acting without undue influence, fraud or restraint and that his or her signature was voluntary. Declarant’s Signature: __________________________________________ Date: ____________ The declarant voluntarily signed this writing in my presence: ________________________________ ________________________________ Witness Witness ________________________________ ________________________________ Address Address ________________________________ ________________________________ City, State and Zip Code City, State and Zip Code YOU MAY REVOKE THIS DECLARATION AT ANY TIME IN ANY MANNER. IMPORTANT: Please DO NOT file this document in a safety deposit box or other place where it cannot be accessed. KEEP THE ORIGINAL WITH YOU AT HOME AND MAKE ITS LOCATION KNOWN TO SOMEONE CLOSE TO YOU. Please ask your nurse or physician if you have questions or need assistance completing this form.
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Your Privacy & Health Information If you believe your health information was used or shared in a way that is not allowed under the privacy law, or if you weren’t able to exercise your rights, please notify Mercy Hospital’s privacy officer at 479-338-3353. You also may go online to www. hhs.gov/ocr/privacy for more information.
You have privacy rights under a federal law that protects your health information. These rights are important for you to know. Federal law sets rules and limits on who can look at and receive your health information.
A separate law provides additional privacy protections to patients of alcohol and drug treatment programs. For more information, go online to www.samhsa.gov.
n Information your doctors, nurses and other healthcare
Who must follow this law?
n Most doctors, nurses, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics,
nursing homes and many other healthcare providers
n Health insurance companies, HMOs and most
employer group health plans
n Certain government programs that pay for healthcare,
such as Medicare and Medicaid
What information is protected?
providers put in your medical records
n Conversations your doctor has with nurses and others
regarding your care or treatment
n Information about you in your health insurer’s
computer system
n Billing information about you at your clinic
n Most other health information about you held by those
who must follow this law
You have rights over your health information.
Providers and health insurers who are required to follow this law must comply with your right to: n Ask to see and get a copy of your health records n Have corrections added to your health information n Receive a notice that tells you how your health information may be used and shared n Decide if you want to give your permission before your health information can be used or shared for certain purposes, such as for marketing n Get a report on when and why your health information was shared for certain purposes n File a complaint
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To make sure that your health information is protected in a way that doesn’t interfere with your healthcare, your information can be used and shared: n For your treatment and care coordination n To pay doctors and hospitals for your healthcare and help run their businesses n With your family, relatives, friends or others you identify who are involved with your healthcare or your healthcare bills, unless you object n To make sure doctors give good care and nursing homes are clean and safe n To protect the public’s health, such as by reporting when the flu is in your area n To make required reports to the police, such as reporting gunshot wounds
How do I get copies of my medical records? You may access records of your hospital stay by signing a request to release these records to you or a designee. By law, we have up to 30 days to provide this information to you. There is a fee for obtaining copies of medical record for personal use. (Note: an incomplete medical record may not be disclosed or copied.)
Without your written permission, your provider cannot: n Give your health information to your employer n Use or share your health information for marketing or advertising purposes n Share private notes about your mental health counseling sessions Adapted from U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights
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LOUIS PASTEUR 1822 - 1895
In the field of observation, chance favors only the prepared mind.
Don’t Leave Until… 6 things to know before you walk out that hospital door.
Be sure to meet with the hospital’s discharge planner early in your stay to ensure a smooth discharge process later on.
When it’s time to be released from the
hospital, your physician will authorize a hospital discharge. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you are completely well—it only means that you no longer need hospital services. If you disagree, you or your caregiver can appeal the decision (see If You Disagree, right). On the other hand, you may be pleased to learn that your doctor has approved your discharge. But before you can leave the hospital, there are several things that you or your caregiver must attend to. The first step is to know who will be involved in your discharge process. This starts with the hospital’s discharge planner, who may be a nurse, social worker, or administrator, or may have 26
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some other title. You and your caregiver should meet this person relatively early in your hospital stay; if not, find out who this person is and be sure to meet with him or her well before your expected discharge date. If You Disagree You or your support person can appeal your doctor’s discharge decision. If you are a Medicare patient, be sure you are given “An Important Message from Medicare” from the hospital’s discharge planner or caseworker. This details your rights to remain in the hospital for care and provides information on who to contact to appeal a discharge decision.
Make sure you have the following information before you leave the hospital: 1. Discharge summary. This
is an overview of why you were in the hospital, which healthcare professionals saw you, what procedures were done and what medications were prescribed.
2. Medications list. This is a listing of what medications you are taking, why, in what dosage, and who prescribed them. Having a list prepared by the hospital is a good way to double-check the information you should already have been keeping track of. 3. Rx. A prescription for any medications you need. Be sure to fill your prescriptions promptly, so you don’t run out of needed medications.
Be sure to ask what foods to stay away from while on your medications.
4. Follow-up care instructions.
Make sure you have paperwork that tells you: n what, if any, dietary restrictions you need to follow and for how long n what kinds of activities you can and can’t do, and for how long n how to properly care for any injury or incisions you may have n what follow-up tests you may need and when you need to schedule them n what medicines you must take, why and for how long n when you need to see your physician n any other home-care instructions for your caregiver, such as how to get you in and out of bed, how to use and monitor any equipment, and what signs and symptoms to watch out for n telephone numbers to call if you or your caregiver has any questions pertaining to your after-hospital care
5. Other services. When you leave the hospital, you may need to spend time in a rehabilitation facility, nursing home, or other institution. Or you may need to schedule tests at an imaging center, have treatments at a cancer center, or have in-home therapy. Be sure to speak with your nurse or physician to get all the details you need before you leave. 6. Community resources. You and your caregiver may feel unprepared for what will happen after your discharge. Make sure your discharge planner provides you with information about local resources, such as agencies that can provide services like transportation, equipment, home care, and respite care, and agencies that can help with patient care and respite care.
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Preparing to Leave the Hospital When You Are Discharged Your physician determines when you are ready to be discharged. Your physician and nurse will give you discharge instructions and answer any questions you have about managing your treatment and medications once you are home. If you are confused or unsure about what you need to do, what medications you must take or if you have to restrict your diet or activities, don’t be afraid to ask and take notes. Be sure you understand any instructions you have been given before you leave the hospital.
Discharge Planning
Our discharge planners can provide you with information about home care, medical equipment, skilled nursing facilities, transportation, Meals-onWheels and other community resources, and may assist with questions regarding Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, State Disability and Worker’s Compensation. The discharge planners and social workers have information on many community resources to assist you after discharge from the hospital. The following is a brief list of categories of community resources: n AIDS–Infectious Diseases n Alzheimer’s n Battered Women/Sexual Assault n Cancer n Community Health Care n Counseling/Mental Health n Disability Papers n Drug/Alcohol Programs n Healthcare Power of Attorney n Homeless Agencies n Infant Resources n Meals-on-Wheels n Senior Assistance Senior Case Management n Suicide Prevention n Teen Mothers n Victim–Witness Program
n Transportation
n Teen Resources
n Welfare Programs
Please ask your nurse to contact a hospital social worker if you would like information about any of these community resources or suggestions for others that you may find helpful. Care and Equipment at Home Your physician may order services for you at home if necessary to provide: n Skilled nursing n Home health aide n IV therapy n New mother and baby care 28
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Uninsured?
n Occupational therapy
n Speech therapy
n Physical therapy
n Home medical equipment
n Medical social work
n Medical nutrition therapy
Your nurse or discharge planner can explain these services and provide you a list of providers.
Billing: What a Hospital Bill Covers
If you are in need of assistance with your hospital bill, call Hospital Financial Counseling at 479-338-2837.
The hospital bill covers the cost of your room, meals, 24-hour nursing care, laboratory work, tests, medication, therapy and the services of hospital employees. You will receive a separate bill from your physicians for their professional services. If you have questions about these separate bills, please call the number printed on each statement. The hospital is responsible for submitting bills to your insurance company and will do everything possible to expedite your claim. You should remember that your policy is a contract between you and your insurance company and that you have the final responsibility for payment of your hospital bill.
If You Have No Insurance
A representative of the Business Office will discuss financial arrangements with you. You also may speak with a hospital representative from the Social Services Department to assist you in applying for Medicaid or other government-assisted programs. Please call 479338-8000 for more information.
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BUDDHA
In compassion lies the world’s true strength.
For the Caregiver Your role as a patient advocate
CAREGIVER...
know what condition your loved one is being treated for.
patient’s rights Know your patient’s rights and responsibilities (see page 15).
advance directives Know whether or not your loved one has an advance directive and if so, what it specifies (see page 17).
While your loved one is in the hospital, who will
speak up for him or her? You can, by being the patient’s advocate—the person who will help the patient work with doctors, nurses and hospital staff. To help your loved one make the best decisions about his or her care and treatment, follow the advice in the caregiver list at right. While you are making sure that your loved one’s needs are being met, don’t neglect your own. Caregiving is a stressful and time-consuming job. You may neglect your diet, your normal exercise routine and your sleep needs. You may find that you have little or no time to spend with friends, to relax or to just be by yourself for a while. But downtime is important. Don’t be reluctant to ask for help in caring for your loved one. Take advantage of friends’ offers to help and look into local adult daycare programs. Find out more about how you can ease the stress of caregiving at www.caregiver.org.
30
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ask questions If your loved one is too ill or reluctant to ask questions, make note of his or her concerns and any you may have and don’t be afraid to speak up (see Speak Up! on page 14).
help track medications Your loved one may be prescribed medications while in the hospital and may be seen by several doctors. Keep track of it all with a wallet-sized notebook.
what’s next? Will your loved one need home care or care at another facility? Ask to speak with a case manager to find out what your options are.
Giving Back Founded in 1984, the Mercy Health Foundation is the fundraising arm of the hospital that gives people the opportunity to support the hospital and health system through philanthropic support that makes many programs, services, and continued outreach and education possible for the community. At Mercy, providing the best care possible is a top priority. Thanks to a team of dedicated people who provide their best care, lives are saved and healthcare advances happen every day. But the cost of such quality care increases due to the changing needs of our communities and the need for accessible state-of-the-art equipment and services. Through the years, the financial support of many generous people has helped Mercy expand and provide up-to-date healthcare services. We appreciate those who have included Mercy in their planning. Types of Gifts: A planned or deferred gift is any contribution that will come to the hospital in the future. Planned gifts, such as a bequest in a will, life insurance, trusts, annuities, life income agreements, charitable remainder trusts or real estate can provide important resources for Mercy. Leaving a Legacy: Planned gift donors receive special recognition by having their name permanently placed on our stained glass donor window, unless anonymity is requested. Amounts or types of gifts will not be mentioned. Donors may prefer to ask their financial advisor to notify us of a planned gift. Planned Giving Advisory Group: Assists people who name or have listed
Mercy as a beneficiary of a planned gift. These advisors can help in matters of trust, life insurance, real estate or stocks and work with a family’s professional advisor to ensure that the donor’s wishes are properly followed. The Mercy Health Foundation accepts: cash donations, securities, real estate and life insurance.
Facts about Mercy Health Foundation n Mercy Health Foundation is a
nonprofit organization.
n All contributions go directly to benefit
hospital and clinic programs and projects solely in northwest Arkansas. n Charity care and other community services are direct beneficiaries of Mercy Health Foundation. n Hospital and clinic management decisions are made by a local board comprised of community members who share your interest in the hospital and our community.
Your Personal Contribution
To inquire about or set up a planned gift, please contact your financial advisor or call our Planned Giving Advisory Group at 479-338-2932. All communications are kept confidential and there is no charge to use this service. Contact information: Mercy Health Foundation of NWA P.O. Box 98 Rogers, AR 72757-0098 Phone: 479-338-2932 Email: Clark.Ellison@Mercy.net
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Physician & Clinic Guide Mercy Doctor Finder
Let us help find you a provider if you are new to Mercy. Call 479-338-3885 today.
Mercy Clinic Convenient Care 3101 SE 14th St. Bentonville, AR 72712-4900 479-986-6090
PRIMARY CARE CLINICS Mercy Bella Vista 1 Mercy Way Bella Vista, AR 72714 479-802-5555
Mercy Clinic Pediatrics Hwy 102 3101 SE 14th St. Bentonville, AR 72712-4900 479-636-9234
Mercy Clinic Primary Care Moberly Lane 2900 Moberly Ln. Bentonville, AR 72712-3748 479-273-1550
Mercy Clinic Primary Care Centerton 1225 E. Centerton Blvd. Centerton, AR 72719-9705 479-795-1301
Mercy Clinic Downtown Rogers
Mercy Clinic Primary Care J Street
Mercy Clinic Family Medicine and Obstetrics
Mercy Clinic Primary Care Lancashire
613 N. 2nd St. Rogers, AR 72756 479-878-1060
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 130 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-5555
Mercy Clinic Family Medicine Lowell 325 S. 6th Place Lowell, AR 72745-9704 479-770-0700
Mercy Clinic Family Medicine SW Regional Airport Rd.
701 Southwest Regional Airport Blvd. Suite 1 Bentonville, AR 72716 479-268-7640
Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine 2708 Rife Medical Ln, Suite 140 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3750
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: www.mercy.net 479-338-8000
1000 SE 13th Ct. Bentonville, AR 72712-7857 479-273-9056 600 Memorial Dr. Bella Vista, AR 72714-1847 479-855-6165
Mercy Clinic West Robinson 1110 W. Robinson Ave. Springdale, AR 72764 479-751-8440
MERCY SPECIALTY CLINICS Mercy Clinic Cardiology
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 220 Roger, AR 72758-1452 479-338-4400
Mercy Clinic Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery 2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 210 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3888
Mercy Clinic Ear, Nose and Throat
Mercy Clinic Orthopedics
Mercy Clinic Endocrinology
Mercy Clinic Palliative Care
Mercy Clinic Gastroenterology Physicians Plaza
Mercy Clinic Psychiatry
5204 W. Redbud St. Rogers, AR 72758-8936 479-636-0110
3333 Pinnacle Hills Pkwy., Suite 300 Rogers, AR 72758 479-338-4600
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 300 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3030
Mercy Clinic GastroenterologyW. Monroe 116 W. Monroe Lowell, AR 72745 479-770-8090
Mercy Clinic General Surgery 1001 Horsebarn Rd. Rogers, AR 72758-8184 479-273-7700
Mercy Clinic Headache
5204 W. Redbud St. Rogers, AR 72758-8936 479-636-0110
1101 Horsebarn Rd. Rogers, AR 479-271-9607
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite T20 Rogers, AR 479-338-3720 325 S. 6th Place Lowell, AR 72745 479-770-0700
Mercy Clinic Pulmonolgy and Critical Care Medicine 2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 200 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3080
Mercy Clinic Rheumatology 2708 Rife Medical Ln., T20, Rogers, AR 72758 479-338-3720
Mercy Clinic Urology 200 S. 20th, Suite C Rogers, AR 72756 479-636-9669
Mercy Clinic Neurology
Mercy Hospitalist Northwest Arkansas
Mercy Clinic OB/GYN
Mercy Clinic Laboratory Physicians Plaza
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite 200 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3080 2708 Rife Medical Ln., T40 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-4000
Mercy Clinic OB/GYN
3333 Pinnacle Hills Pkwy., Suite 300 Rogers, AR 72758 479-338-4646
2710 Rife Medical Center Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-8000
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite T30 Rogers, AR 72758-1452 479-338-3555
Mercy Imaging
2708 Rife Medical Ln., Suite T30 Roger, AR 72758-1452
www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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GEORGE DORSEY 1868-1931
The more you use your brain, the more brain you will have to use.
Crossword ACROSS
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Source: www.satorimediaworks.com
1 Metrical unit 5 Arabian judge 9 Grandfather of Saul 12 Exude 13 Sleeping 14 Mountain on Crete 15 Japanese carriage 16 Weed 17 Computer generated imagery (abbr.) 18 Alcott heroine 20 Sable 22 Article 25 Nat'l Endowment for the Arts (abbr.) 27 Garland 28 Time period 29 International (abbr.) 31 And other: abbr. (2 words) (Lat.) 34 Sinbad's bird 35 Fr. author 37 Amer. Dental Assn. (abbr.) 38 Wing (pref.) 40 Grape syrup 41 Jap. fish 42 Article (Fr.) 44 Negative population growth (abbr.) 45 Deviate 46 Necktie 49 Droop 51 Male person 52 Baseball equipment 54 Eth. Danakil people 58 Pointed (pref.) 59 Afr. tree 60 Polish rum cake 61 Footlike structure 62 Direct 63 Poetic foot
DOWN
1 Before some vowels (pref.) 2 Tumor (suf.) 3 Free 4 Monad 5 Felis (2 words) 6 Amateur Boxing Assn. (abbr.) 7 Skin (suf.) 8 Utopian 9 Wink 10 Wayside 11 Pour 19 Camelot lady 21 Female ruff 22 Manmade protective mound 23 Owl's cry 24 Moon of Saturn 26 Hindu soul 30 Pulka (2 words) 32 City in Judah 33 Den
: www.mercy.net 479-338-8000
36 Legend 39 Race the motor 43 Palmetto 46 Thunder sound 47 People 48 Subtract 50 Taro 53 Yarn measure 55 Federal Aviation Admin. (abbr.) 56 Antiballistic Missile (abbr.) 57 Mortar beater ANSWER KEY
WOODY ALLEN 1935 -
It is impossible to travel faster than the speed of light, and certainly not desirable, as one’s hat keeps blowing off.
Sudoku
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 through 9.
ANSWER KEY
How did you do? Check your answers here. Source: www.sudoku-puzzles.net
www.mercy.net 479-338-8000 :
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IMMANUEL KANT 1724-1804
Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.
My Medications Keep track of all medications you are prescribed while in the hospital. When you get home add all other medications—including over-the-counter, vitamins and herbs—to this list. Update your list as needed.
Medication:______________________________________________________________ (include brand and generic names)
Dose: Take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m. Reason for taking:__________________________________________________________ Prescribed by:______________________________ Date started:_____________________ Pharmacy name and number:____________________________ /_____________________ Medication:______________________________________________________________ (include brand and generic names)
Dose: Take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m. Reason for taking:__________________________________________________________ Prescribed by:______________________________ Date started:_____________________ Pharmacy name and number:____________________________ /_____________________ Medication:______________________________________________________________ (include brand and generic names)
Dose: Take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m. Reason for taking:__________________________________________________________ Prescribed by:______________________________ Date started:_____________________ Pharmacy name and number:____________________________ /_____________________ Medication:______________________________________________________________ (include brand and generic names)
Dose: Take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m. Reason for taking:__________________________________________________________ Prescribed by:______________________________ Date started:_____________________ Pharmacy name and number:____________________________ /_____________________
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: www.mercy.net 479-338-8000
When is it time to call Hospice? It’s a common question with an easy answer. The earlier you call, the sooner you will benefit from all that hospice has to offer you and your loved ones.
“We wish we had known about you sooner.”
We’re ready to listen. We’re ready to help. We are Circle of Life Hospice.
1-800-495-5511 Serving Benton, Washington, Carroll & Madison counties.
nwacircleoflife.org
Arkansas Paramed Transfer Arkansas Paramed Transfer
24-Hour Ambulance Service
• Locally Owned & Operated Since 1981 • Basic & Advanced Life Support
• Medicare/Medicaid Approved • Local & Out-of-Town Transfers
Rogers
479-631-1093
Springdale
479-571-3333
www.arparamed.com
“Where Everyone Is Family”
Village House is a non-profit adult day program dedicated to enriching the lives of participants and providing affordable respite for caregivers. Activities Include: • Educational programs • Music • Crafts • Daily exercise programs • Games
Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday
extended hours available
1801 Forest Hills Blvd., Suite 206 Bella Vista, AR 72715 479-855-4449 www.villagehousebellavista.com
With a group of board-certified physicians, APRNs and The Center for Chest Northwest Arkansas can boast that it has the only comprehensive cancer center in Care, Highlands Oncology Group can provide state-of-the-art treatment the state! This allows area patients battling cancer to receive treatment close to with cutting-edge technology. home. With a group of board-certified physicians and APRNs, our goal is to provide state-of-the-art treatment with cutting-edge technology.
Highlands Oncology Group is helping people in Northwest Arkansas theirpeople battle cancer every day. Highlands Oncology Group win is helping in with Northwest Arkansas win their battle with cancer every day.
Wo r l d - C l a s s Tr e a t m e n t C l o s e To H o m e W O R L D - C L A S S
T R E A T M E N T
C L O S E
T O
H O M E
Rogers | 479.936.9900 | 808 S. 52nd St. • Fayetteville | 479.587.1700 | 3232 N. North Hills Blvd. Fayetteville | 479.695.4234 479.361.2585 | 60 E. Monte Painter Dr.