PATIENT GUIDE Key Information For Your Stay
FACTS FOR YOUR STAY SPEAK UP!
Ask Questions and Voice Concerns
SUCCESSFUL DISCHARGE How to Plan Ahead
FR
EE
! HoTake T
me his W Co ith py Yo u
www.clarkregional.org | 859-745-3500
Brought to you by:
Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Skilled Nursing • Social Work Servicing Clark, Montgomery, Bath, Menifee, Powell and Fayette Counties
859-498-5199 • 888-498-5199 101 Bruce Professional Park Mt. Sterling, KY 40353
Time To Take Care Of You! College for Technical Education Cosmetology Salon Hours: Monday-Friday 10AM–3PM
859-744-3361
... Or Learn the Art of Cosmetology In Winchester call 859-272-5225
College for Technical Education Lexington location offerings: (in as little as 9 months)
(Appointments and Walk-In’s welcome) 2135 Bypass Road, Winchester, KY 40391
• Medical Assistant • Food and Hospitality Professional (Culinary) • Early Childhood Education • Building Trades Technician • Business Office Administration • Cosmetology (1800 hours)
“Ask about the monthly stipend!”
For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.cte.edu and click on Gainful Employment Disclosures.
Our dedicated staff will work with you to create a meaningful and memorable tribute to your loved one. • Traditional, Non-Traditional & Cremation services • Options available for all budgets • Prearrangement specialists • Financing available • Family owned for three generations
859-744-2422
219 W. Lexington Avenue • Winchester, KY 40391 www.ScobeeFuneralHome.com
CO N T E N TS WELCOME. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 ABOUT US. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 PHONE DIRECTORY.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 OUR COMMITMENT TO CARE.. . . . 5 RAPID RESPONSE TEAM. . . . . . . . . . 7 FAST FACTS ABOUT YOUR STAY.. . 8 Plus TV Channel Guide SPECIAL SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MEDICINE TRACKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 YOUR PRIVACY MATTERS.. . . . . . . . 22 ADVANCE DIRECTIVES. . . . . . . . . . . 24 SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS. . . . . . . 25 PREVENT HOSPITAL INFECTIONS.. 26 LEAVING THE HOSPITAL. . . . . . . . . . 28 SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH. . . . . . . . . . 30 Heart Attack & Stroke Warning Signs Stop Smoking NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
13
Take Charge of Your Care
Speak Up, Plus 7 Key Ways to Take Charge of Your Care n Choose a Support Person n Check IDs n Pay Attention to Your Care n 5 Ways to Fight Infections n Don’t Ignore Pain n Prevent Falls n Prepare for Surgery n Manage Your Meds n
On Our Cover Facts for Your Stay. . . . . . . . . . 8 Speak Up! Ask Questions and Voice Concerns. . . . . . . . . . . 13 Successful Discharge How to Plan Ahead. . . . . . . . . . 28
The editorial content displayed here is the responsibility of PatientPoint. This material is for your educational use only. It does not contain, nor should it be construed as containing, medical advice. Talk to your doctor before making any lifestyle or treatment changes. Sponsors are responsible for the material provided, and your healthcare provider’s participation in the program does not represent an explicit or implied endorsement of any material presented. The people shown are models and are not known to have any health condition. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Image credits: Getty Images, iStockphoto. ©2016 PatientPoint ®
Welcome Thank You for Trusting Us Welcome to Clark Regional Medical Center. We are pleased that you and your physician have selected our team to provide your medical care.
MISSION STATEMENT
Clark Regional Medical Center is a LifePoint facility. LifePoint’s facilities and employees across the nation are united by a shared mission of: “Making Communities Healthier.”
2
At Clark Regional, we strive to exceed your healthcare expectations. I have great confidence that you will make us your hospital of choice. Our employees and physicians make up one of the best healthcare teams in Central Kentucky, and we will seek to make you as comfortable as possible during your stay. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask your physician or your nurse. If at any time we can be of further assistance, please notify administration at ext. 8558. We reward our employees for compliments they receive from patients, so feel free to share exceptional stories about our staff as well. It is our privilege to be your healthcare provider. Thank you for choosing Clark Regional Medical Center.
About Us Why We Are the Right Choice for Your Care Our Vision
To make Clark Regional Medical Center a place where ... n People choose to come for healthcare n Physicians want to practice n Employees want to work
Our Core Values n n n n
Honor (Honesty and Respect) Trustworthiness Legal Compliance Compassion
Our High Five Guiding Principles
LifePoint was founded with five core guiding principles we call our High Five. These principles guide our actions and decision-making and define what communities can expect from us as a healthcare partner: n Delivering We Care About Your Care compassionate, high-quality patient Please speak up and tell us if we can do more. In care fact, after your stay, we’ll n Supporting physicians be reaching out to you to to achieve clinical find out how we did. Please excellence be honest and take a few n Creating excellent moments to tell us what workplaces for you think. Your responses our employees to this patient satisfaction n Strengthening our survey will help improve our services. hospital’s role in the community n Ensuring fiscal responsibility
CONTACT US 175 Hospital Drive • Winchester, KY 40391 PH: 859-745-3500 • www.clarkregional.org 3
Phone Directory Key Numbers Main: 859-745-3500 | Central Registration: 859-737-8501 Gift Shop: 859-737-8426 | Laboratory: 859-737-8350 Patient Feedback: 859-737-8523
Calling from INSIDE the hospital? Dial the last four digits only.
OTHER HOSPITAL SERVICES Anticoagulation 859-737-8473 (Coumadin) Clinic
Outpatient Surgery
Case Management 859-737-8282
Powell County Clinic
Center for Women 859-737-6206 and Babies
Radiology
859-737-8300
Clark Clinic 859-737-6494 Urgent Care
Rehabilitation Services (Inpatient)
859-737-8375
Health Information 859-737-8290 (Medical Records)
Rehabilitation Services (Outpatient)
859-737-8454
Intensive Care Unit 859-737-6228
Skilled Nursing Unit (TCU)
859-737-6200
Medical 859-737-6140 Surgical Unit
The Clark Clinic
859-737-6480
For more information on the resources available at Clark Regional Medical Center, visit www.clarkregional.org.
4
859-737-8400 606-663-8000
Our Commitment to Care Patient Satisfaction Matters to Us How’s your stay? Are you getting the care you need? Are your doctors and nurses listening and responding to your questions or requests? Our goal is to provide the best quality care. To do so, we ask for feedback from patients like you.
During Your Stay
Please speak with your nurse or nursing supervisor if you have any questions or concerns about your care. If your issue is still not resolved, then contact the director of Patient Experience at 859-737-8523. You also have the right to file your complaint with either: Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of the Inspector General P.O. Box 12250 Lexington, KY 40511 859-246-2301
Office of Quality and Patient Safety The Joint Commission One Renaissance Boulevard Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 800-994-6610 Email: patientsafetyreport@ jointcommission.org
?How gniod are ewwe erdoing? a woH We want you to be satisfied with your care. To help, speak up if we can … Respond quicker to your needs Explain things more clearly Help keep your room clean or quiet Ease your pain Help you understand your medicine plan
MAKING A DIFFICULT HEALTHCARE DECISION?
Sometimes a healthcare choice can involve an ethical concern— such as a wish to refuse life-saving treatment or a disagreement over advance directives (see p. 24). Our Case Management Department can help your team of support people make difficult decisions. For help, contact Case Management at 859-737-8282.
5
Our Commitment continued After Your Stay
Once you leave our care, we will continue to seek your feedback through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. The HCAHPS survey is a tool to measure and report patient satisfaction. It’s made up of simple multiple-choice questions on key care topics such as:
n
doctor and nurse communication
n
medicine and discharge information
n
pain management and staff responsiveness
n
overall quality of the hospital environment
If you’re selected to receive this brief survey, please take the time to complete it. The results will help us know what we are doing right and where we can improve.
Want to Know How We Score? You can review and compare the quality, care and safety ratings for different hospitals at: n Medicare Hospital Compare, uses HCAHPS results and other data: www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare You also can find information on hospitals through: n The Joint Commission: www.qualitycheck.org
6
Rapid Response Team Special Support to Prevent Emergencies
During your stay, you have access to a special service called the Rapid Response Team. You can call this service, and our Rapid Response Team (RRT) will check on you or your loved one and provide help before there is a life-threatening emergency.
WHEN to Call the Rapid Response Team Call for help if you notice: n
n
n
n
significant changes in heart rate or blood pressure
c hange in respiratory (breathing) rate or oxygen levels c hanges in urine output (much more or less urine) c hange in mental status or level of consciousness
n
n
a ny time you are worried that something might be wrong a ny change in the patient’s condition that needs immediate attention and the healthcare team is not responding, or if you continue to have serious concerns after speaking with the healthcare team
HOW to Call
the Rapid Response Team
Step 1: Dial 0 on the bedside phone. Step 2: Tell the operator: your room number and that you are requesting Rapid Response. Step 3: The Rapid Response Team will be sent to your room.
7
Fast Facts About Your Stay An A-Z Guide to the Most Frequently Asked Questions ATM
Located in the Clark Café.
Cafeteria
The Clark Café is located near the main entrance. Hours: Breakfast: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Lunch: 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Calling Your Nurse
VISITING THE HOSPITAL? Thanks for taking the time to support your loved one’s care and recovery. See p. 11 for important visitor information.
Your room is connected to the nursing station via an intercom system. To call for your nurse, press the NURSE call button located on the bed or the handheld TV control. If you have any questions on how to use the call button, ask a staff member to help you.
Cellphones
Cellphones may be used throughout the hospital unless otherwise directed.
Electrical Appliances
For safety reasons, we discourage the use of electrical equipment not supplied by Clark Regional Medical Center. Exceptions may be made, but for your safety, electrical equipment not provided by the hospital must be approved by the patient care director prior to use.
Flowers
Flowers sent to patients will be delivered to patient rooms by a hospital volunteer. Flowers are not permitted in the Intensive Care Unit.
8
Gift Shop
Located in the main lobby. Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
received at Clark Regional Medical Center after your discharge will be forwarded to your home address.
Medicines
We encourage you to give valuables, such as jewelry or cash, to a trusted friend or family member to take home. If you prefer, valuables can be locked in the hospital safe until you are discharged.
Please do not bring any prescription or over-thecounter medicines to the hospital unless otherwise instructed. All medicines you take in the hospital need to be prescribed, filled and given to you by hospital staff. Tell your doctor about any medicines you regularly take. If you still need them, hospital staff will give them to you.
Housekeeping Services
Pastoral Care
Hearing Impaired
Notify your caregiver if you require assistance. TTY and TTD, or an interpreter, are available upon request.
Hospital Safe for Valuables
A member of the Environmental Services staff will attend to your room daily to keep it clean and comfortable. If you have suggestions or comments, please direct them to your caregiver or Environmental Services staff. Our goal is to create a clean and safe place for you to heal.
Internet CafĂŠ
For the convenience of our visitors, there is an Internet CafĂŠ located in the main hallway. Coffee and vending machines are available 24/7.
Interpreters
The hospital provides language interpreting and translation services. Notify your caregiver if you require assistance.
Mail will be delivered to your room by a hospital employee. Outgoing mail can be given to a nurse or a hospital volunteer. Any mail
Pastoral care strives to meet the spiritual and emotional needs of patients and their families. At your request, a nurse will contact a clergyman of your choice or the chaplain on call. A nondenominational meditation/prayer room (chapel) also is located in the main hallway across from the courtyard. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to visit the chapel for prayer and quiet reflection.
Patient Meals
We will provide food service to you during your stay. Breakfast meals arrive in the areas beginning at 7:00 a.m.; lunch meals begin at 11:30 a.m.; and dinner meals begin at 4:30 p.m. Times will vary depending on where your room is located. A catering associate will get menu selections from you daily. Based on your medical condition, your meal choices may be limited.
9
Facts About Your Stay continued Personal Belongings and Valuables
Personal care items, such as contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures, can be stored in your bedside stand when not in use. Please do not put them on your bed or food tray to help avoid them being lost or damaged. Leave valuables like jewelry or cash at home, or give them to a trusted relative or friend to watch over. Clark Regional Medical Center cannot be responsible for replacing personal belongings.
Public Restrooms
For everyone’s health and safety, we ask visitors not to use patient restrooms. Public restrooms are located throughout the hospital. Ask hospital staff to direct you to the nearest one.
Rapid Response Team
You can request the Rapid Response Team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond if your condition worsens and you do not get the immediate care you need. Dial 0 to request this special service. See p. 7 or ask a staff member to learn more.
Tobacco
To protect and promote good health, our campus is tobacco free. Smoking and the use of other tobacco products or e-cigarettes
10
are not permitted anywhere on hospital property, either inside or outside. Information on smoking cessation will be provided upon request.
Telephone
The telephone in your room is available for your convenience. Please dial 9 + the number for local calls. There is no charge for local calls. To call long distance, dial 9 + 0 for the outside operator if you want to bill the call to your home or reverse the charges. A portable TTY machine for the hearing impaired is available. Contact your caregiver for more information.
TV
Each room has a television with cable channels for your viewing. Please be considerate of others by keeping the volume down and turning off your TV at bedtime. TVs are controlled by the bedside pillow speaker or side rail controls. Closed captioning is available for the hearing impaired. Ask a staff member if you have any questions on using your TV. See p. 12 for TV Channels.
Vending Machines
Vending machines are available in the Internet Café, the Clark Café and near the main entrance. You can find beverages and snacks 24 hours a day in the Internet Café and near the restrooms located next to the main entrance.
Visiting Hours
General visiting hours are between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. every day. Patients have the right to choose to receive visitors from among family, friends or other individuals at any time during their stay. There may be some differences to visiting times based on the needs of the patient. Visitors accompanied by children must check with the nurse prior to seeing the patient. Children must not be left unattended within Clark Regional Medical Center. ICU Guidelines Visitation may be limited from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to accommodate shift change report/assessment of patients. n Limit of two visitors per patient (exceptions at primary nurse or physician discretion only). n All visitors for patients located in the ICU should check with ICU personnel prior to visiting. n Visitors may be restricted due to patient care needs.
n
o children under age 14 without N special permission from primary nurse or physician.
Visitor Guidelines
We encourage well-wishers for emotional support and recovery. To provide a restful and safe environment, we ask that visitors follow these guidelines: n Do not visit if you have a cold, sore throat, fever or other illness. n Avoid noisy, disruptive behavior to help respect the healing of all patients. n Ask before bringing foods, drinks, or other items like balloons, flowers or perfume that might trigger allergies into patient rooms. n Wash your hands before entering and after exiting a patient room. n Make sure all children have a supervising adult with them at all times.
Visitation Policy Clark Regional Medical Center understands that having loved ones by your side can help with your healing and care. You have the right to choose and prioritize visitors from among family, friends, partners, personal care aides or other individuals (regardless of the person’s gender or your relationship to the person). You also can choose a support person to be present throughout your stay, unless that person’s presence affects your health or the rights or safety of other patients.
11
Facts About Your Stay continued
TV CHANNELS 3 WLEX 18-1
20 Discovery
4 WLEX 18-2
21 History
5 WKYT 27-1
22 ABC Family
6 CWKYT 27-2
23 HGTV
7 WTVQ 36-1
24 Food Network
8 KET 46-1
25 Nickelodeon
9 FOX 56-1
26 ESPN News
10 ION 67-1
27 USA
11 ESPN
28 TV Land
12 ESPN2
29 TLC
13 ESPN University
30 TBS
14 Cartoon Network
31 TNT
15 HLN
32 SyFy
16 CNN
33 AMC
17 CMT
34 E! Network
18 VH1
35 A&E
19 Fox News
12
Answer: With 4 hours of viewing each day or 28 hours a week, by age 65 TV-viewing time can equal roughly 9 years!
?
Quick Quiz! By the age of 65, how many years of the average American’s life is spent in front of the TV? o 2 years o 5 years o 9 years o 12 years
Take Charge of Your Care You are the center of your healthcare team. Let this special guide help you get the best results from your hospital stay.
Speak Up! If you have questions or concerns, you have the
right to ask and get a response from your doctor or nurse that makes sense to you. To help, share your answers to these questions with hospital staff.
What language would you prefer to speak?
Do you need glasses, hearing aids or other devices to help with talking to hospital staff?
Do you prefer to hear, see or read health information?
Do you have any cultural, ethnic or religious-based special needs?
Who will be your support person who talks with hospital staff about your healthcare wishes? (see p. 15)
Ask Yourself Is there anything else the hospital should be aware of to improve my care experience? 13
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued
7 Key Ways
TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE SPEAK UP. Ask questions and voice concerns. It’s your body, and you have the right to know. PAY ATTENTION. Always double-check that you are getting the right treatments and medicines from the right hospital staff. EDUCATE YOURSELF. Learn about your medical condition, tests and treatment options, so you know why following your care plan is so important. FIND A SUPPORT PERSON. Pick someone to help speak up for your care and needs during your stay. KNOW YOUR MEDS. Understand what your medicines treat, why you need them, and how to take them for the best results. CHECK BEFORE YOU GO. Make an informed decision when selecting additional healthcare services. Choose only accredited providers who meet patient safety and quality standards. Go to www.qualitycheck.org to learn more. PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CARE. You are the center of your healthcare team. Make sure you know what’s happening every step of the way—from admission through discharge. Source: The content within the “Take Charge of Your Care” section reinforces the safety and quality care goals and standards issued by The Joint Commission and other hospital accreditation organizations.
14
Choose a Support Person A trusted friend or family member can be a big help during your hospital stay. Select one key person to be your healthcare advocate. If you become stressed or your ability to communicate changes, this person can stand in for you—and stand up for your care.
A support person can: n
n
n
ask questions you might not think of and write down information double-check your medicines and treatments watch for signs your condition is getting worse and ask for help
Don’t forget to tell the staff who you’ve picked to be your support person.
Check IDs
While you are here, many people will care for you (doctors, nurses, aides, orderlies), and these same people will care for many patients. To prevent errors in your care: A sk to see the ID of everyone who comes into your room, so you know the name and job of the person caring for you. If you do not see an ID badge, contact your nurse immediately. peak up if hospital staff does not S check your ID. Any time staff enters your room to give you medicine, transport you, or perform procedures or treatments, state your name and birthdate.
Always double-check your name with staff to avoid errors.
This may seem repetitive at times, but it helps ensure you receive the correct care.
15
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued
Pay Attention To Your Care n
n
n
n
n
n
n
Tell your nurse if something doesn’t seem right.
You Are Key You are the most important member of your healthcare team.
Know what time you normally get medicine, and tell your nurse if you don’t get it.
Understand your treatment
Request drawings or illustrations to help you learn about your condition.
Ask questions Speak up about pain
Read and understand all medical forms before signing. Ask if you need information explained.
Know your medicines Plan early for a successful discharge
If your treatment involves medical equipment, practice using it with your nurse before you leave the hospital. Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. The more information you have, the better you will feel about making decisions. Talk to your doctor and family about whether you want life-saving actions taken.
And Remember, Take Charge of Your Communication Ask About Jargon: I f you hear a medical term you don’t understand, ask what it means.
16
“Teach Back”: After you get instructions or an explanation, repeat back what you thought you heard so you can double-check that you understood.
Take Notes: W rite down any key facts your doctor tells you so you won’t forget.
S:11”
a a
Dear Sam,
T:11.5” S:11”
Dear Sam, I thought we were in this together, we were in this together, butI thought apparently I was wrong. T:11.5” S:11”
a
but I was wrong. Dearapparently Sam,
You’ve been ignoring me for a You’ve ignoring me for a I thoughtbeen were in this together, while. Wewe don’t go for walks as while. We don’t go wrong. for walks as but apparently I was often as we used to. Youbarely barely eat often weignoring used to.me You eat You’veas been for a anything anymore. Andyou you anything greengo anymore. while. Wegreen don’t for walks And as don’t the daily pressure you oftenrealize as we used Youpressure barely eat you don’t realize theto. daily anything green It’s anymore. And you meunder. under. It’s just putput me justtoo toomuch. much. don’t realize the daily pressure you put me under. It’s just too much.
Sincerely,
Your Heart Your Heart Your Heart Don’t let your heart quit on you. If you are living with high blood pressure, justheart knowing minimum isn’tblood enough. Don’t let your quit onand you.doing If you the are living with high pressure, just knowing and doing the minimum isn’t enough. Uncontrolled high blood pressure could lead to stroke, heart
Don’tattack let your heart quit on you. If you are living with blood Uncontrolled high Get blood pressure leadrange to stroke, heart or death. yours to acould healthy before it’s high too late. attack or death. Get yours to adoing healthythe range before it’s too late. pressure, just knowing and minimum isn’t enough. Find out how at heart.org/BloodPressure
Uncontrolled high blood pressure could lead to stroke, heart attack or death. Get yours to a healthy range before it’s too late. ™ Find out how at heart.org/BloodPressure ™ Check. Change. Control. Check. Change. Control.
T:21”
S:20.5”
Sincerely,
Find out how at heart.org/BloodPressure
T:21”
S:20.5”
T:21”
Sincerely,
S:20.5”
QUIT! I IIQUIT! QUIT!
$29.95 a month
Free Installation • No Equipment to Purchase • No Contract
859-368-8119
www.assurancemedicalalert.com • robin@assurancemedicalalert.com
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
®
We are a Durable Medical Equipment Company Accredited by The Compliance Team. Products Provided: • Pressure Ulcer Treatment/ Prevention Mattresses • Air Fluidized Beds • Hospital Beds • Patient Lifts/Ramps
• Manual Wheelchairs & Cushions • Incontinence Supplies • Breast Pumps and Breast Feeding Supplies
Serving Central, Eastern and Southern Kentucky 1210 West Lexington Avenue • Winchester, KY 40391
(888) 737-1880 • (877) 737-1881 (fax) newmoonmed.com
Losing weight’s a lot harder than gaining it… but very much worth the effort.
With every step, you lower your risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
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.
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.
5 Ways to Fight Infections The hospital is a place you come to get well, but you also can come in contact with germs that can make you feel worse. Reduce your chances of infection by taking these safety precautions. 1 Clean your hands. n after touching hospital objects or surfaces n before eating n after using the restroom 2 Ask hospital staff members to clean their hands. This should be standard practice, but don’t be afraid to remind them if they forget or to ask them to wear gloves when touching you. Ask visitors to clean their hands too!
CLEANING TIP: Use soap and water or hand sanitizer under your nails, in between your fingers, and on the palms and backs of your hands. Rub for 15 seconds (the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday).
3 Cover if you are sick. If you get an infection, limit the spread of germs by sneezing and coughing into tissues you promptly throw away, and avoid touching other people. Ask the staff if there is anything else you should do—like wear a surgical mask—to prevent the spread of germs. 4 Keep an eye on bandages or dressings. If a dressing on a wound or IV becomes loose or wet, let your nurse know. Also if you have a catheter or drainage tube, tell your nurse if it becomes loose or dislodged. 5 Keep your vaccinations up-to-date. Make sure you are as protected as possible from the spread of infection. Check with hospital staff about whether it’s safe for you to receive any vaccines you might need.
Tell friends and family not to visit if they are sick. And make sure all your guests wash their hands when they enter your room.
17
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued
Don’t Ignore Pain No one knows how much pain you are in but you. Tell your doctor or nurse when pain strikes, or if it comes back again after it goes away. Talk about your pain level throughout the course of your stay.
Ask yourself, then share with your nurse. n
Where does it hurt?
n
When does it hurt?
n
Does it keep you from doing things—like sleeping, dressing, eating?
Which words describe your pain? q aching
q cramping
q pressure
q shooting
q bloating
q cutting
q pulling
q soreness
q burning
q dull
q radiating
q stabbing
q comes and goes
q numbing
q searing
q throbbing
q constant
q pressing
q sharp
q tightness
How bad is it on this pain scale? Wong-Baker FACES® Pain Rating Scale
0 No Hurt
2 Hurts Little Bit
4 Hurts Little More
6 Hurts Even More
8 Hurts Whole Lot
*Copyright 1983, Wong-Baker FACES® Foundation, www.WongBakerFACES.org. Used with permission.
You’re the Expert on Your Pain Starting to get uncomfortable? Pain medicine not working? Speak up. You may need to get more of the current pain medicine you are on, or switch to a different kind of medicine to get relief. Don’t try to ignore painful symptoms. Managing your pain will help with your healing process. Talk to your doctor or nurse when pain strikes.
18
10 Hurts Worst
Prevent Falls While you are here, you may feel dizzy or weak. Illness, procedures, medicines, or even just lying down for too long can make you less steady on your feet. To keep yourself safe: n n
n n
n
Use the nurse call button for help getting out of bed. sk for help going to the bathroom or walking around. A (And use hospital handrails when they’re available.) Wear nonslip socks or footwear. eep often-used items within easy reach K (glasses, remote, tissues, etc.). ake sure your wheelchair is locked when you get in M or out of it. Never step on the footrest.
Patients of all ages are at risk for falls. It’s better to be extra careful than risk another medical problem.
Prepare for Surgery Before your procedure, make sure you and your surgical staff confirm: n n
n
your name the type of surgery you are having the body part to be operated on—In fact, hospital staff will mark the correct spot on your body. Make sure you or your support person checks that it’s correct.
Take simple steps like these to help prevent medical mistakes.
Ask your surgeon to take a “time out” to check: you’re the right person, getting the right surgery, on the right body part. 19
TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued
Manage Your Meds Whether you take one medicine or five, it’s important to know what you are taking and why. Ask your doctor these questions about any new (and current) medicines you take: n
n
n
n
n
n
n
hat is the name of my W medicine? Generic name? hy am I taking it? How will W it help? When will it start working? hat dose? How often? W How long? hat is the best time (morning, W night, etc.) or way to take it (with food, with water)? hat are possible side effects? W What do I do if they happen? re there any foods, drinks or A activities to avoid? What do I do if I miss a dose?
Remember, Take Charge of Your Medicines Think you’re due for your next dose? Wondering if this new medicine can replace one you already take? Want to make sure all your medicines and supplements are safe to take together? Don’t be afraid to ask.
20
Prevent Medicine Errors Be sure your doctors and nurses know: n All the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements you take. n Any allergies you have to medicines, anesthesia, foods, latex, etc. n That your name matches the name on the medicine (use your ID bracelet to double-check).
Medicine Tracker Keep track of all the new medicines you are prescribed while in the hospital—plus any other medicines you already take.
MEDICINE 1
MEDICINE 2
MEDICINE 3
MEDICINE 4
Drug Name What Does it Treat?
Dose How to Take it
(With food, on an empty stomach, etc.)
When to Take it
(Time of day, morning, night, etc.)
Notes
(Prescribing doctor, pharmacy, side effects)
Share With Staff Fill out this list with hospital staff to double-check you’re taking your medicines correctly and that they’re all safe to take together. Be sure to also include over-thecounter medicines, vitamins and supplements.
21
Your Privacy Matters Privacy and Health Information You have privacy rights under a federal law that protect your health information. This law sets rules and limits on who can look at and receive your health information. These rights are important for you to know.
Who must follow this law?
Most doctors, nurses, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and many other healthcare providers and their vendors Health insurance companies, HMOs and most employer group health plans Certain government programs that pay for healthcare, such as Medicare and Medicaid
Right to Complain If you believe your rights are being denied or your health information isn’t being protected, you can file a complaint with your provider, health insurer or the U.S. government at www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy.
What information is protected?
Information your doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers put in your medical records
onversations your doctor has with nurses and others regarding your care C or treatment
Information about you in your health insurer’s computer system
Billing information about you at your clinic
ost other health information about you held by those who must follow M this law
What rights do you have over your health information? Providers and health insurers must comply with your right to:
22
sk to see and get a copy A of your health records ave corrections added to H your health information Receive a notice that tells you how your health information may be used and shared
ecide if you want to D give your permission
efore your health information can be used or shared for certain b purposes, such as for marketing et a report on when and why your health information was shared G for certain purposes File a complaint
What are the rules and limits on who can see and receive your health information? 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:
For your treatment and care coordination To pay doctors and hospitals for your healthcare and help run their businesses
Contact Health Information at 859737-8290 for copies of medical records.
With your family, relatives, friends or others you identify who are involved with your healthcare or your healthcare bills, unless you object To make sure doctors give good care and nursing homes are clean and safe
To protect the public’s health, such as by reporting when the flu is in your area To make required reports to the police, such as reporting gunshot wounds
Without your written permission, your provider cannot:
Give your health information to your employer Use or share your health information for marketing or advertising purposes Share private notes about your mental health counseling sessions
Another law provides additional privacy protections to patients of alcohol and drug treatment programs. For more information, visit: www.samhsa.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights
23
Advance Directives A Simple and Smart Way to Take Charge of Your Care One of the most important decisions you can make about your care is to fill out advance directives in case you can no longer speak for yourself. Advance directives are documents that let others know your wishes about the type of care you want. And they will only be used if you become unconscious or too ill to communicate yourself. Different states have different laws about advance directives. Check with your Admissions department or nurse if you have any questions. Directives can include:
Living Will FILL OUT YOUR FORMS
Make sure you submit advance directives each time you go to the hospital, so your most current information and wishes are on file. You do not need a lawyer to fill these out. For more information and to obtain the forms you need, contact Case Management at 859-737-8282.
This set of instructions explains the type of lifeprolonging medical care you wish to accept or refuse. It can include your wishes about the use of resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops, a ventilator if you stop breathing, or feeding tubes or IVs if you cannot eat or drink.
Durable Power of Attorney
For healthcare: This is a legal document that names your healthcare proxy—someone who can make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. An official healthcare proxy can represent your wishes on emergency care Choose Your Care but also on other medical issues like potential treatment Fill out advance options, blood transfusions, directives so your wishes are met and kidney dialysis, etc. Choose your loved ones someone you trust, discuss are sure of what your medical wishes and you want. make sure the person agrees to represent you in this role. For finances: You also have the right to appoint someone or the same person to help manage your finances if you cannot.
24
Support for Caregivers
How to Play a Role in Your Loved One’s Recovery
We encourage patients to pick a key person to support them during their hospital stay. Whether you are that primary support person, or just one of many people caring and supporting your loved one, you can play an important role in making sure your loved one gets the safest and best care both here—and beyond the hospital.
What to Know Before You Leave
Caregivers can help ensure the best outcome for their loved one after a hospital stay by getting the answers to these three questions: n
n
n
hat is the next step for medical W care (home or facility, follow-up with primary care physician or physical therapy, etc.)? Help your loved one arrange the details to make this happen—financial plan, transportation, scheduling, etc. hat new and former medicines W does my loved one need to take? Help your loved one understand the details—timing, dosing instructions, side effects, prescription refills, etc.
Caregivers Need Care Too If you feel like you need a break or help, reach out to friends and family. And consult the resources listed here. RESOURCES n National Alliance for Caregiving www.caregiving.org n
n
Family Caregiver Alliance www.caregiver.org Caregiver Action Network www.caregiveraction.org
hat health warning signs do I W need to watch for and what do I do if they happen? Help your loved one by writing these symptoms down, as well as the name and contact number to call.
25
Prevent Hospital Infections Take Steps to Reduce Your Risk During Your Stay According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1 in 25 patients gets a healthcare-associated infection while staying at the hospital. Often, these happen because hospital procedures and equipment can expose internal parts of your body to germs. The chart below lists common infections and steps you can take to prevent them.
TYPE
26
HOW IT STARTS
Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Germs enter your urinary tract while using a tube to drain urine
Surgical Site Infections
Germs affect the site of your surgery—either on your skin or internally
Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections
Germs enter your bloodstream through a large tube that’s inserted in a vein near your neck, chest or groin
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
Germs enter your lungs through a tube in your mouth, nose or neck used to help you breathe
Superbugs
A superbug is a germ that causes a bacterial, viral or fungal infection, but does not respond to the usual treatments. This means these bugs make you sicker longer and increase your risk of more serious complications. Common strains include MRSA, E. coli, and VRE. Superbugs spread from person to person through touching germy hands or objects. Protect yourself by taking the steps below. And remember, wash your hands and ask everyone you see during your stay to wash his or her hands too.
SYMPTOMS n n n n
n n n
n
n
n n
fever burning pain bloody or frequent urination redness pain drainage of cloudy fluid fever r ed skin and soreness at site fever chills
PREVENTION n n
n n
n
n n n
n n
n
n
n
n n n n n
cough mucus fever chills shortness of breath
n n n
n
clean hands before touching area keep urine bag below level of bladder to prevent backflow don’t tug, pull, twist or bend the tube secure catheter to your leg and ask every day if it’s still needed do not shave surgery site (irritation increases risk of infection) clean hands before touching area don’t let visitors touch or dress your wound ask your nurse to show you how to care for your wound c lean hands before touching area make sure staff wears gloves, gown, cap, mask and sterile drape when handling tube speak up if your bandage comes off, looks wet or dirty, or if your skin looks sore avoid touching tube or letting visitors touch tube ask that tube be removed as soon as possible c lean hands before touching area ask if it’s safe to raise the head of your bed know how often the inside of your mouth needs to be cleaned and speak up when it hasn’t happened ask that the tube be removed as soon as possible
27
Before You Leave the Hospital
A successful recovery after your stay starts with a solid plan before you go.
Plan Early to reduce your chances of being readmitted and
increase your chances for a healthy recovery. Take steps as soon as possible during your stay to plan for a successful transition from the hospital.
To begin, ask to speak with your discharge planner, and review the following: n your discharge summary and discharge plan n your complete medicine list and instructions n your upcoming appointments n what to do if you don’t feel well
A Reason To Plan Early If you need a rehabilitation facility, a nursing home, skilled care or other service after your stay, you’ll need time to find and weigh your options. For help comparing services in your local area, go to: n www.medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare n www.medicare.gov/homehealthcompare n www.qualitycheck.org 28
Checklist for Discharge Make sure you have the following information before you leave the hospital.
pD ischarge summary. This includes why you were in the hospital, who cared for you, your procedures and medicines.
Not Ready To Leave? You have the right to appeal your discharge if you don’t agree with the decision that you are ready to leave the hospital. Speak with your discharge planner or physician, and share your concerns. You also may need to reach out to Medicare, Medicaid or your insurance company.
pM edicine list. This includes all your new and former prescriptions, overthe-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. Ask if there are any medicines you can stop taking or that are not good to take together. Also make sure you know why, how and when to take each one. pP rescriptions. Check that your pharmacy has your new prescriptions and you have a plan to get them filled. p Follow-up care instructions. Beyond medicine, this can include: n warning signs to watch for n foods or activities to avoid n daily living adjustments n tests or appointments (like how to get into bed) n how to care for incisions or n who to call with questions use equipment pA fter-hospital services. Know how much support you’ll need in these areas: n Personal care: bathing, eating, dressing, toileting n Home care: cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping n Healthcare: taking your medicines, doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, wound care, injections, medical equipment p Local Resources. Ask your discharge planner for help finding local after-care services or other support groups. Try the teach back method. Repeat back what you hear the discharge planner say to make sure you understand the details correctly. 29
SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH
Heart Attack & Stroke Warning Signs Recognize the Signs and Get Help Quickly A heart attack or stroke is a medical emergency, and every second counts. The faster you or a loved one recognizes the symptoms and gets help, the better your chances of surviving, with the least amount of damage to your heart or brain. Once you’ve had an event, you’re at greater risk of having another in the future. But keep in mind that the symptoms of a second event can be different from what you experienced the first time.
Heart Attack Warning Signs
The main symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. It also can feel like pressure, fullness or squeezing in your chest. These feelings may start gradually and get worse, or they may come and go. The symptoms of a heart attack can be different for women. Women also may have unusual heartburn, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, or they may feel tired or anxious weeks before a heart attack.
Stroke Warning Signs
Think F.A.S.T. when it comes to recognizing a stroke:
F ACE DROOPING: Does one side of your face droop or is it numb? Try to smile.
A RM WEAKNESS: Is one arm weak or numb? Raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
PEECH DIFFICULTY: Is your speech slurred? Are you unable to speak? S Try to say a simple sentence like “The sky is blue.”
T IME TO CALL 911: If you notice any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 911 right away.
Other sudden symptoms can include:
n
numbness or weakness in your leg
n
confusion or trouble understanding
n
trouble seeing in one or both eyes
n
trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance and coordination
n
severe headache with no known cause
30
SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH
Stop Smoking Reduce Your Chances of Returning to the Hospital No matter how long you’ve been a smoker, it’s never too late to quit this unhealthy habit. The benefits start right away and last a lifetime: n
n
n
n
n
n
0 MINUTES after quitting, 2 your heart rate and blood pressure drop. WEEKS TO 3 MONTHS after 2 quitting, your circulation improves and your lungs work better. 1 YEAR after quitting, your risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker’s. YEARS after quitting, your risk 5 of mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder cancers is cut in half. 10 YEARS after quitting, your risk of lung cancer is half that of a smoker’s. 1 5 YEARS after quitting, your risk of heart disease is the same as a nonsmoker’s.
Ready, Set, Quit!
Now that you’ve decided to quit, take it one day at a time. Remind yourself that you are in control— you can choose to smoke or not. Make a commitment to yourself. Write down why you want to quit and read it every day. Be prepared to have nicotine cravings. They usually pass soon, so wait it out. The good news is that they become weaker and less frequent the longer you go without smoking. When a craving hits, take a walk, call a friend or do something else you enjoy.
3 Tips to Help You Quit 1. Fight the Urge Don’t let yourself think that you can have just one cigarette, but if you do slip, start again and make tomorrow your new first day to quit. 2. Get Moving Exercise is a good way to keep your mind off cigarettes. The longer you go without smoking, the better you can breathe and the easier it will be to exercise. 3. Keep Your Mouth Busy Try toothpicks, celery, sugarless gum or sugar-free lollipops.
31
Notes
? 32
Have a question or concern on your mind? Share it with hospital staff. We want to help but can’t unless you tell us what you need.
Clark County Pharmacy Let Clark County Pharmacy take care of your prescription needs. We have an experienced, knowledgeable staff who will get your medicine ready accurately and quickly. We offer a drive thru and delivery for your convenience. Most insurance plans are accepted. We are locally owned and operated. We can flavor liquids for kids and offer compounding of various dosage forms.
Pharmacists - Nevin & Tracey Goebel, Lindsay Slone
RGB #7B550E #C79B3C #FDD978 #000000 #A51E22 #Ff0000
WINCHESTER FEDERAL BANK - Font Georgia TRUST CONFIDENCE SECURITY - Times New Roman
Independent & Assisted Retirement Living Conveniently located on the Bypass in Winchester. Only minutes from Hamburg with easy access to Interstates 64 and 75. www.brooksplace.org
Retirement Living in Your Hometown Assisted Living
Now Renting Studio , One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments
Schedule Your Free Tour Today! For more information, contact Kim Schweitzer at 859-745-4904.
The Cottages at Brooks Place
Your Hometown Home Health Agency
• • • • • • • • • •
RN Services Wound Care IV Infusion Therapy Teaching & Management of Disease & Medication Personal Care Physical Therapy Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy EPSDT Home Community Based Waiver
273 Shoppers Drive Winchester, KY
859.744.1488
859.737.2618 (fax)
We hold ourselves to a high standard – yours. INDEPENDENT LIVING • Choice of spacious apartment layouts • 24-hour security • Five-star dining experience
PERSONAL CARE
At The Lafayette and Lexington Country Place, we deliver exceptional senior living experiences every day, with three unique levels of care and service within our warm, welcoming community.
• Private apartments • Personal assistance with all activities of daily living • 3 daily chef-prepared meals • Medication administration
SKILLED NURSING AND REHABILITATION • 24-hour skilled nursing available • Full range of rehabilitation services • Medicare/Medicaid certified
Call today for a personal tour! 690 Mason Headley Rd. • Lexington, KY 40504
859-278-9080 www.LafayetteLexington.com © 2015 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.