Opelousas General Health System Patient Guide
OUR
family
C A R I N G F O R YO U R S
OpelousasGeneral.com
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In This Guide Welcome to Opelousas General Health System
3
About Us
4
Important Phone Numbers
5
During Your Stay
6
Guidelines for Visitors
6
Calling Your Nurse
6
Telephone
6
Lost & Found
6
Smoking
6
Fire & Disaster Drills
7
Electrical Appliances
7
Television Channel Guide
7
Patient Education Videos
7
Mail & Flowers
7
TV Channel Listing
8
TIGR Program Guide
9
Cafeteria
11
Gift Shop & Coffee Shop
11
Pastoral and Spiritual Care
11
ATM, Parking & Cellphones
11
Breastfeeding Support & Language Services
12
Speak Up! 13
13 Speak Up
Take charge of your care.
17
For Your Safety
You can contribute to health care safety.
OUR ADDRESS 539 E. Prudhomme St. Opelousas, LA 70570
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. ©2015 PatientPoint ® www.opelousasgeneral.com 337-948-3011 :
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Your Rights & Responsibilities 14 For Your Safety 17 What are Your Advance Directives? 20 Your Privacy & Information 21 Do You Have Pain? 23 Food & Drug Interaction Guide 24 26 Don’t Leave Until...
5 things you should know before you walk out the door.
Don’t Leave Until… 26 Preparing for Discharge 29
Ways to Voice Your Concerns
31
For the Caregiver 32 Giving Back 33
Volunteer Opportunities
33
Resources 35
32 For the Caregiver
Your role as patient advocate.
Staff Definitions
35
Hospital Resources
36
Caregiver Resources
37
OGHS Active Medical Staff
38
My Medications 40
35 Resources
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Word Search
41
Acute-Care Infection Prevention
42
Notes and Questions
44
Welcome to Opelousas General Health System
T
hank you for choosing Opelousas General Health System to meet your health care needs. Since 1957, OGHS has been dedicated to the provision of quality health care through its strong commitment and high standards. Central to the success of OGHS’s commitment for excellence is the presence of an outstanding and highly qualified staff of physicians who provide professional treatment in a caring environment. We understand that some hospitals can be a confusing place, especially when you are dealing with personal health concerns or the health of a loved one. Part of our care for you includes providing you with clear information. Our hope is that this patient handbook provides you with valuable information about our hospital services. Our goal is that it helps to familiarize you with OGHS and what to expect during your stay. If you have additional questions or concerns, please ask any member of our staff to assist you.
Mission Our Family Caring For Yours
OGHS is a three campus, 207-bed, full-service medical center and the area’s most comprehensive community health care facility. Rest assured that the finest professionals involved in your care have the best in technology to assist them. Please be mindful of our mission statement, which is “Our Family Caring for Yours.” On behalf of our entire team at OGHS, please accept our best wishes for your good health. We take pride in offering you high quality and compassionate care, and we appreciate your decision to entrust your care to us. If there is anything we can do to make your stay better, please let us know.
Health–Uniting financial strength with community wellness
Vision Exceeding Your Expectations Values Healing–Service and technology second to none Heart–Live the Golden Rule in all that we do Hands–Dedicated, skilled and caring individuals
Hospitality–An innovative environment nurturing mind, body and spirit
Sincerely, Ken Cochran, DSc, RN, FACHE President/CEO
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About Us LICENSED BY: State of Louisiana ACCREDITED BY: n Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations n College of Pathologists n American College of Radiology n American Academy of Sleep Medicine MEMBER OF: n American Hospital Association n Louisiana Hospital Association n Opelousas/St. Landry Chamber of Commerce CERTIFIED BY: n American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation n American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer n Department of Health and Human Resources n Social Security Administration for Medicare/Medicaid AFFILIATED WITH: n LSU-Eunice Nursing School n LA Technical College - T.H. Harris Campus School of Nursing n ULL School of Nursing n Lafayette Regional Vo-Tech n ULL Department of Health Information Management n LSU-Eunice Radiology Program n Medvance Institute for Radiology
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S
ince 1957, Opelousas General Health System has been dedicated to the provision of quality health care through its strong commitment and high standards. Central to the success of OGHS’s commitment for excellence is the presence of an outstanding and highly qualified staff of physicians, nurses, technologists and other personnel who provide professional treatment in a caring environment. Serving as the region’s referral medical center, OGHS is the area’s most comprehensive community health care facility offering a range of medical specialities and state-of-the-art technology. OGHS is a 207-bed, full-service medical center as complete and as inclusive as any referral hospital in the state. The North Campus, South Campus and Sunset Campus facilities are located in St. Landry Parish, which boasts a population of over 92,000. The primary service area draws from surrounding communities including: Sunset, Grand Coteau, Port Barre, Washington, Arnaudville, Leonville, Krotz Springs, Melville, Lawtell, Palmetto, Ville Platte and Church Point. OGHS is the second largest employer in Opelousas with over 1,000 employees.
Important Phone Numbers General hours of operation are weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
MAIN NUMBER
Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5101 Admitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5198 Business Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5119 Cancer Treatment Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-942-1126 Cardiopulmonary Lab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-943-7107 Cardiolpulmonary Rehab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-943-7121 Case Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5128 Cath Lab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5195 Centralized Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-943-7107 Dialysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-594-3494 Emergency Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5129 Environmental Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5123 Food & Nutrition Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-594-3800 Guest Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 3224 Health Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5190 Information Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-594-3911 Lobby Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-407-4447 Medical Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5127 Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5167 Respiratory Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5122 Same-Day Surgery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5199 Security/Grounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 5618 Sleep Disorders Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-943-7146 Social Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5128 Volunteer Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-407-4447 Wellness Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337-948-5157
337-948-3011 Foundation
337-594-3499
Billing
337-948-5105
Gift Shop
337-407-4447
Patient Trays 337-594-3800
If you or your caregiver notice a change in your condition or you start to feel worse, press the nurse call button right away or dial the nursing supervisor at 5166. To call outside the hospital from your room first dial a 9.
Calling a Department WITHIN the Hospital? Dial the last four digits of the number. Pediatrics . . . . . . . . 5109 OB . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5148 PCU . . . . . . . . . . . . 7145 ICU . . . . . . . . . . . . 5182 4N . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5165 5N . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5131 6N . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4408 www.opelousasgeneral.com 337-948-3011 :
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During Your Stay GUIDELINES FOR VISITORS General Med Surgery Visiting hours are from 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. n Certain nursing units have their own designated visiting times. Please ask a team member for the unit’s visiting hours. n Children may visit unless otherwise directed by the patient’s physician. n One overnight visitor may stay with a patient. n Certain circumstances may allow exceptions to these guidelines. Please consult the charge nurse if you have a special request.
Intensive Care Unit 6:00 – 6:20 a.m. 10:00 – 10:20 a.m. 3:00 – 3:20 p.m. 8:30 – 8:50 p.m. ICU times are approximate and will be announced by a staff member. Each patient will be allowed four visitors at a time for a period not to exceed 20 minutes. Visitors leaving at 8:50 p.m. must exit the hospital by the Emergency Department. Children 12 years of age and younger are not permitted in the ICU, Labor and Delivery, Postpartum and Pediatric Units. 6
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W
e 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.
Calling Your Nurse The intercom system in your room is mounted on the wall above the bedside table. This system is used for direct voice contact with the staff members at the nursing station. Extending from the intercom is a pillow speaker that can be clipped to your bed for convenience. To call the nursing station, press the top bar marked “NURSE” and a staff member will respond via the intercom. When the nursing staff member answers, please make your request in a normal speaking voice. Some beds have the nurse call button built into the side rail. Please clarify with your nurse as to which nurse call system you have. Telephone Telephones are provided in all patient rooms. Local calls can be made free of charge by dialing 9 and the number you wish to call. Longdistance calls can be made collect or charged to your home phone. For long-distance calls, dial 9 + 0 and ask to be connected with a longdistance operator. For your convenience, you may receive incoming calls in your room from 6:30 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. daily. Outgoing calls may be made anytime.
Lost & Found If you think you have lost something, notify your nurse immediately. For information concerning lost items, please contact the Housekeeping Department at ext. 5123. Smoking Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the hospital or on hospital grounds.
Fire & Disaster Drills During your stay, the hospital may have to practice a fire or disaster drill. Patients are not moved as a part of any drill, so please do not be alarmed should you see or hear evidence of a drill. If there is any danger for any reason, patients can rest assured they will be moved to safety immediately. Electrical Appliances Electrical appliances including hair dryers, curling irons, razors, radios, heating pads, portable heaters, VCRs, computers and other devices are not permitted in patient rooms. You may use only battery-operated devices. Television Channel Guide Televisions are provided in each patient room. Please be considerate of others and keep the TV volume down. The sets are controlled by the pillow speaker, which may be clipped to your bed, or by controls located on the side rail panel. (TV Channel Listing on page 8)
Leave Your Valuables At Home If you have valuables, such as jewelry and cash, please give them to a relative or friend to take care of during your stay. Contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures should be stored in your bedside stand when not in use. Please don’t put them on your bed or food tray – they may be damaged or lost. Opelousas General Health System cannot be responsible for replacement of personal belongings.
Patient Education Videos The Education Center has a free video-on-demand service for our patients. The service is called TIGR (Telephone Initiated Guided Response) and is used for patient education on varying topics such as diabetes, cardio, obstetrics, pulmonary, etc. Anyone may call 3994 from the phone in a patient’s room to order a video. The recorded voice will request a three-digit video number. The listing of videos with a number and a description is available on pages 9-10 in this guide, Channel 60 of your TV, in the TIGR guide in your room and upon request to the nursing staff. Mail & Flowers Mail and packages will be delivered to you by a hospital volunteer as soon as they arrive. Please note that flowers are prohibited in intensive care units. Patient mail received after discharge will be forwarded to the patient’s home address. Outgoing mail may be taken to the nursing station or given to your attending nurse. Postage stamps are available in the gift shop.
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Television Channel Guide
3
33
CBS - KLFY
Bravo
4
NBC - KPLC
34 SyFy
5
CW - KATC 2
35
Food Network
6
ABC - KATC
36
History
7
FOX - KADN
37
Lifetime
8
PBS - KLPB
38
Hallmark Channel
9
MyTV - KLAF
39
HGTV
10
ION Television
40
GSN
11
Weather Channel
41
Turner Classic Movies
12
ESPN
42
TV Land
13
ESPN2
43
ABC Family
14
FS Southwest
44
Travel Channel
15
Fox Sports 1
45
truTV
16
SEC Network
46
Comedy Central
17
MLB Network
47 E!
18
NBC Sports Network
48
Disney Channel
Fox News Channel
49
Nickelodeon
20 CNN
50
Cartoon Network
21 HLN
51
Animal Planet
22 CNBC
52
Discovery Channel
19
23
MSNBC
24 TNT
53
MTV
54
VH1
25
TBS
55
CMT
26
FX
56
BET
27
USA
57
OWN
28 A&E
58
National Geographic Investigation Discovery
29
AMC
59
30
TLC
60-67 TIGR Videos
31
Oxygen
32
Spike
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Program Guide Patient Education Videos Here’s how to do it! Dial 3994 Listen to the prompts and make your selection: Press 1 for video on demand. Press 2 for exam or survey. Press 3 to repeat the message. Press 4 to end the call.
E D U C AT I O N C E N T E R
n Using the telephone keypad, enter the three numbers of the video you have chosen. (A complete listing is on the following pages.) n Videos are available on TV Channels: 60–67. n TIGR will tell you which TV channel to watch. n If the video is already in use, TIGR will call you back on your room phone when your video is ready to play.
Video # Title
Video # Title
Category-General
Category-Heart
101
Pain Management: It’s Your Right The Three Rs
200
Coronary Angiography & Angioplasty
201
Smoking: Getting Ready to Quit
202
Pacemakers: (3rd Edition)
203
Atrial Fibrillation (2nd Edition)
204
Heart Failure: Understanding Your Medications
205
Heart Failure: Eating to Feel Better
206
High Blood Pressure: An Introduction to Treatment (4th Edition)
207
Stroke: Reducing the Risk
Category-Diabetes
301
Diabetes and Nutrition: Eating for Health
302
Diabetes Foot and Skin Care: In Step (4th Edition)
303
Basic Skills for Controlling Diabetes
304
Healthy Food Choices: Developing a Plan
102 Helping Recovery at Home: Patient Guide to Self-Injection (Lovenox) 103
Helping Recovery at Home: Patient Guide to Self-Injection (Lovenox) (Spanish)
104
Coumadin Therapy and You
105 Gastroenterology: Ostomy Care at Home 106
Renal Nutrition
107
High Cholesterol: An Introduction to Treatment
109
Young Children Eating Right (Ages 1 to 6)
110
Health Habits for Kids (Ages 7 to 12)
111
Hand Hygiene Saves Lives
112 Hand Hygiene Saves Lives (Spanish) 113
Opelousas Nursing Patient
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Video # Title
409
Getting Started (Sp)
Category-Diabetes
410
Breastfeeding
306
Putting Carbohydrate Counting into Practice
411
Breastfeeding (Sp)
412
Making Enough Milk
307
Introduction to Carbohydrate Counting
413
Making Enough Milk (Sp)
308
Diabetes and Exercise
414
Hands-On Pumping
309
Staying in Balance: An Introduction to Type 1 Diabetes for Kids and Their Families
415
Hands-On Pumping (Sp)
416
Safe Sleep for Your Baby
310
What is Diabetes? (Type 2) (4th Edition)
417
Safe Sleep for Your Baby (Sp)
311
Preventing the Long-Term Complications of Diabetes (4th Edition)
418 Mother and New Baby Care – Baby Friendly Version
312
Gestational Diabetes
419 Understanding Breastfeeding – Your Guide to a Healthy Start
313
Non-Insulin Medications for Diabetes
420
Healthy Birth Your Way
314
Understanding Insulin (2nd Edition)
315
Taking Insulin (2nd Edition)
316
Monitoring Your Blood Glucose: Key Concepts
Category-GYN
317
Diabetes and Heart Disease (2nd Edition)
500
After Your Mastectomy
318
Managing Type 2 Diabetes in Young People
Category-Pulmonary
319
Kidney Disease and Diabetes
600
Living with Asthma (2nd Edition)
Category-OB
403
A Premie Needs His Mother: First Steps to Breastfeeding Your Premature Baby
601
Managing Your Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
602
Pleur X Drainage System
404
A Premie Needs His Mother: First Steps to Breastfeeding Your Premature Baby ll
603
Pleur X Drainage System (Sp)
Category-Orthopedics
405
Skin to Skin Breastfeeding
406
Hand Expression
701
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
407
Hand Expression (Sp)
702
Total Hip Replacement Surgery
408
Getting Started
703
After Joint Replacement Surgery
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During Your Stay
. . . continued
Cafeteria The Lil’ General Café is located on the first floor next to the Lobby Shop and Admit area. The Lil’ General Café offers hot meals, a salad bar and a sandwich shop. The sandwich shop offers hamburgers, subs, sandwiches, grilled paninis, croissants, burritos and wraps. Guest trays are available during the Lil’ General Cafe’s operating hours. Trays will be charged to the guest receiving it. Please ask your nurse or patient representative for assistance. Our vending machines are located on the first floor near the Gift Shop. Gift Shop & Coffee Shop The Lobby Shop & Coffee Shop are an important part of Opelousas General Health System. Caring individuals and a wonderful atmosphere make it a pleasure to visit. Available in the shop are balloons, plush toys, books, snacks, and a variety of merchandise. Both are located on the first floor next to the Lil’ General Café. The Coffee Shop offers speciality coffees, hot chocolate, tea, muffins, and cookies. Hours of Operation: Lobby Shop – ext. 4447 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Saturday Coffee Shop 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Saturday
Pastoral and Spiritual Care Pastoral care is available for our patients. To request a visit from an area clergy, please notify your nurse or a patient representative. Eucharistic ministers are available daily. A chapel is located near the main lobby and can be identified by the stained glass windows. The chapel is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it offers a place for personal prayer, quiet reflection or meditation. A prayer group meets in the chapel each Tuesday at noon for prayer and meditation.
WHERE’S THE CAFETERIA? LOCATION: First floor in the main lobby adjacent to the Lobby Shop. Visitors are welcome to dine in the cafeteria. HOURS: Breakfast 6:30 – 9:30 a.m. daily Lunch 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. daily
PARKING All parking at OGHS is free. Safety & Security representatives provide escorts to all campus parking areas after dark. Call ext. 3981, 3982, 3983 or 5618 to arrange an escort. Parking areas are monitored and patrolled by OGHS Safety & Security officers. ATM 24-hour ATM access is available on the first floor, in the main hall, across from the Lobby Shop.
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During Your Stay
. . . continued
LANGUAGE SERVICES Interpretive services will be provided to patients and family members that require assistance. This service is made available by telephone or computer depending on the service needed. Please inform the nurse if this service is required.
Breastfeeding Support Breastfeeding support is available 24 hours a day to patients, visitors and staff of OGHS who need a private space to nurse their child or express breast milk. It is located on the third floor Maternal-Child unit, inside the nurses station. Just ask a staff member for access to the room. An international, board-certified lactation consultant is on staff for inpatient and outpatient consults for any patients, visitors or staff. If you would like to speak with the lactation consultant, or to make an appointment, call 337-594-3804 to leave a message. You also may call the Nursery at 5320 to have her paged, or ask your physician to order a lactation consult.
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Speak Up! Take charge of your care.
D
uring 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.
STEP UP & SPEAK UP SPEAK UP Ask questions and voice concerns. It’s your body and you have a right to know. 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.
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.
STAT NOTE n Write down any questions you have n Choose a support person to communicate with the doctors and staff n Keep a list of doctors you see and the medications they prescribe
WHAT MEDS & WHY Know what medicines you take and why you take them. CHECK BEFORE YOU GO Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of health care organization that meets The Joint Commission’s quality standards. PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CARE You are the center of the health care team. Courtesy of The Joint Commission.
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Your Rights & Responsibilities CONCERNS If at any time during your stay you have an issue, please call the nursing supervisor at 948-5166.
A
s a patient, you have the right to respectful and considerate care. In addition, there are specific rights and responsibilities you have during your hospital stay.
You Have the Right to: 4 be informed about the care you receive. 4 receive information in a manner you understand. 4 participate in decisions about your care, treatment and services. 4 make decisions about your care; to give or withhold informed consent. 4 know the names of the caregivers treating you. 4 have your privacy respected, including health information. 4 safe care. 4 have pain treated. 4 practice your religious, cultural, personal and spiritual beliefs within reason based on health circumstances. 4 be given an explanation when something goes wrong with your care. 4 be given an up-to-date list of all medications you are to take. 4 by law; access, amend, obtain information on disclosure of your health record. 4 be listened to and communicated with by health care staff. 4 be treated with courtesy, dignity, respect and receive emotional support. 4 be told treatment options and potential risk. 4 have visitors of your choosing and change access of visitors by your choosing at any time. 4 have a support individual of your choice during your hospital stay. 4 not experience discrimination based on age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, language, physical or mental disability, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression. 4 give or withhold informed consents to produce or use recordings, films or other images for purposes other than your care.
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4 make decisions about care, treatment and services rendered at the end of life. 4 have your complaints reviewed by the hospital. 4 access protective and advocacy services. 4 be cared for in an environment free of abuse, neglect or harassment.
You are Responsible for: 4 providing all past and present, accurate, complete health information to your health care providers and all other matters pertaining to your health so that you can be provided the best care, treatment and services. 4 asking questions or acknowledging lack of understanding in regards to the treatment course or care decision. 4 following OGHS personnel instructions, policies, rules and regulations to contribute to a safe environment. 4 knowing the consequences of your own actions if you refuse treatment or do not follow the health care providers instructions.
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION Any time staff members enter your room to administer medications, transport you or perform procedures and treatments, they must check your birth date and name before they proceed. You may be asked the same question repeatedly, which may be annoying, but please understand that this verification process is critical to patient safety to guarantee you receive the correct medication and treatment.
4 maintaining a respectful, considerate relationship while promoting open communication with physicians, their assistants and employees of OGHS. 4 meeting your financial commitment to our facility so that we may continue to provide quality health care to this community. 4 reporting unexpected changes in your condition to your health care providers.
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Your Rights & Responsibilities . . . continued Alert Wristbands All hospitals in Louisiana use the same colors for their alert wristband. These wristbands alert staff at a glance of certain patient needs or alerts. What do the different wristband colors mean? RED means Allergy Alert – If you have an allergy to ANYTHING, medicine, food, dust, grass, pet hair, etc., please tell us. ORANGE means Fall Risk – Indicates a patient may need assistance when walking to prevent a fall. Fall Risk may be due to weakness from illness, medication side effects or post-surgery status. PINK means Restricted Extremity – Indicates that a patient’s extremity should be handled with extreme care. BLUE means DNR or Do Not Resuscitate – Some patients have expressed an end-of-life wish and we want to honor that.
Rapid Response Team The Rapid Response Team (RRT) enables us to respond more quickly to changes in a patient’s condition. Friends and family members know their loved ones best. Your help in recognizing medical emergencies is greatly appreciated and assists us in providing the highest possible level of care. When to Notify the Rapid Response Team Notify your nurse immediately or activate the Rapid Response Team by calling the nurse supervisor at 5166 if you notice a serious change in your loved one’s condition, such as: n Something is just not right n Difficulty breathing n Bleeding n Mental status changes or difficulty rousing n Unrelieved concerns about a patient’s medical condition
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For Your Safety Get Involved As a patient, you can make your care safer by being an active, involved and informed member of your health care team. This brochure is aimed at providing you with simple advice on how you can make health care a good experience. Research shows that patients who take part in decisions about their own health care are more likely to get better faster.
SIX EASY THINGS YOU CAN DO TO FIGHT THE SPREAD OF INFECTION
Speak Up Speak up if you have questions or concerns. If you still don’t understand, ask again. It is your body and you have the right to know.
n Cover your mouth and nose when coughing
Pay Attention Pay attention to the care you receive. Always make sure you are getting the right treatments and medicines by the right health care professionals. Do not assume anything. Educate Yourself Educate yourself about your illness. Learn about the medical tests you receive, as well as your treatment plan. Have Support Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate (advisor or supporter). Plan in advance to have transportation available for you when you are ready for discharge. Participate Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the health care team. Tell your doctor or nurses if you feel you will need assistance from home, health nurses or special equipment such as a bedside commode when you go home. Know Your Medications Know what medications you take and why you take them. Medication errors are the most common health care mistake.
n Wash your hands often n Make sure health care providers wash their hands or wear gloves
n If you are sick, avoid close contact with others n If you have a sore or drainage, let your doctor and nurses know n Get shots (like flu & pneumonia) to avoid disease and fight the spread of infection OGHS IS FIGHTING THE SPREAD OF INFECTION BY n Encouraging frequent hand hygiene amongst health care workers n Promoting early isolation of contagious illnesses n Recommending appropriate antibiotic usage n Coordinating patient care with The Office of Public Health n Education of contagious illnesses to prevent spread of infection
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For Your Safety . . . continued QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT YOUR CONDITION n Are there any special instructions for daily activities? n What signs and symptoms should you watch for? n If you have wounds, how do you take care of them? n Will you need to have follow-up tests? Who should you follow up with to get the test results? n When can you expect to go back to work? n Who can you call if you have any problems after leaving the hospital?
Bring a Medication List You will need to give your doctors, pharmacists and other caregivers a list of any medications you are currently taking. This list should have your prescription medicines, over-the counter medicines (for example, aspirin), vitamins, herbs, diet supplements, natural remedies, amount of alcohol you drink each day or week and recreational drugs. Always keep this list with you for emergencies. How To Avoid Medication Mistakes n Make sure your nurses check your wristband and ask your name and date of birth before giving you medicine. n Do not be afraid to tell a caregiver if you think you are about to get the wrong medicine. n Tell your caregiver if you do not feel well after taking a medicine. Ask for help immediately if you think you are having a side effect or reaction. What Should You Do Before Leaving The Hospital You should be given written instructions about your follow-up care. A hospital discharge planner or social worker can help you plan your follow-up care. Ask a family member or friend to help you. What You Should Know About Your Medicines When you fill your prescription after discharge, make sure to read the label to indicate it has your name on it and the right medication. If you have doubts about a medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist or caregiver. Make sure you understand all your medications and the instructions for taking your medication after discharge.
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Preventing Falls Patients often fall because they are on medications that make them dizzy, weak and unsteady due to illness or medical procedures, or they’ve been sitting or lying down for too long. For your safety, please: n always call for assistance before getting out of bed. n keep the call button within easy reach. n have necessary items within reach, such as your glasses, tissues, the telephone and anything else you need. n when you get assistance, rise slowly from your bed or chair to prevent dizziness. n walk close to the wall and hold onto the handrail while in the bathroom. A safety/fall plan will be initiated by nursing staff to select appropriate nursing interventions to decrease your risk for falls. The safety/fall plan includes, but is not limited to, the following nursing interventions: orange bracelet applied to alert all disciplines caring for you. orange signage applied to door, signage stating “Fall Prevention”. offer bedpan/bathroom more frequently. have family member stay with you and notify staff when leaving you alone. n inquire about a senior companion. n n n n
Other fall prevention measures may include, but are not limited to: n Bed exit alarms. n providing you with frequent education and reminders. n calling family members and request they come and stay with you if necessary. n keeping the door open for closer observation, when appropriate. n padding the bed rails, when appropriate. n using a night light during sleep or dark hours. n ensuring appropriate footwear is in place before walking. n ensuring assisted devices are used, when appropriate, before walking. n assigning a senior companion to sit at your bedside.
DVT: LOWER YOUR RISK Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in the legs and block circulation. The clots can lodge in the brain, heart or lungs, causing damage or even death. When you’re hospitalized and in bed with limited physical activity, your risk of DVT increases. Ask your doctor about using compression boots or stockings and/or blood thinners to prevent DVT during your stay. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following warning signs: q A leg cramp or charley horse that gets worse q Swelling and discoloration in your leg, upper arm or neck q Unexplained shortness of breath q Chest discomfort that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough q Light-headedness or blacking out
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What are (Your) Advance Directives? WHAT ARE ADVANCE DIRECTIVES? A living will, health care proxy and durable power of attorney are the legal documents that allow you to give direction to medical and psychiatric personnel, family and friends concerning your future care when you cannot speak for yourself. You do not need a lawyer in order to complete advance directives. HOW DOES SURGERY AFFECT YOUR ADVANCE DIRECTIVE? The administration of anesthesia involves some practices that might be viewed as resuscitation. Review your directives with your health care provider to determine if changes or modifications should be made prior to your procedure. If you wish to register your advanced directives with the state: Office of the Secretary of State P.O. Box 94125 Baton Rouge, LA 70807-9125
Y
ou have the right to make decisions about your own medical treatment. These decisions become more difficult if, due to illness or a change in mental condition, you are unable to tell your doctor and loved ones what kind of health care treatments you want. You will need unrelated witnesses present when making these decisions, and you can revoke your choices at any time. That is why it is important for you to make your wishes known in advance. Here is a brief description of each kind of directive:
Living Will A set of instructions documenting your wishes about life-sustaining medical care. It is used if you become terminally ill, incapacitated, or unable to communicate or make decisions. A living will protects your rights to accept or refuse medical care and removes the burden for making decisions from your family, friends and medical professionals. Health Care Proxy A person (agent) you appoint to make your medical decisions if you are unable to do so. Choose someone you know well and trust to represent your preferences. Be sure to discuss this with the person before naming him or her as your agent. Remember that an agent may have to use his or her judgment in the event of a medical decision for which your wishes aren’t known. Durable Power of Attorney For health care: A legal document that names your health care proxy. Once written, it should be signed, dated, witnessed, notarized, copied and put into your medical record. For finances: You also may want to appoint someone to manage your financial affairs when you cannot. A durable power of attorney for finances is a separate legal document from the durable power of attorney for health care. You may choose the same person for both, or choose different people to represent you.
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Your Privacy & Information Privacy & Your Health 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. Who Must Follow This Law? n Most doctors, nurses, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and many other health care providers n Health insurance companies, HMOs and most employer group health plans n Certain government programs that pay for health care, such as Medicare and Medicaid What Information Is Protected? n Information your doctors, nurses and other health care 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
YOUR 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, you can file a complaint with the hospital privacy officer. You also can file a complaint with the U.S. government. Go online to www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy for more 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.
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 Request corrections or amendments to your medical record 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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Your Privacy & Information . . . continued How do I get copies of my medical records? You must go to the Health Information Department, located on the first floor of the Women’s Center, and sign for your medical record.
To make sure that your health information is protected in a way that doesn’t interfere with your health care, your information can be used and shared: n For your treatment and care coordination n To pay doctors and hospitals for your health care and help run their businesses n With your family, relatives, friends or others you identify who are involved with your health care or your health care bills, unless you object n To make sure doctors give good care 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
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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627 East Prudhomme Street Opelousas, LA 70570 337-942-1126
Deborah Johnson, M.D. Hematology/Oncology
OUR LADY OF
Prompt Succor
NURSING HOME AND REHABILITATION CENTER
A Ministry of the Marianites of Holy Cross 954 East Prudhomme Street Opelousas, LA 70570
337.948.3634
www.promptsuccor.com www.marianites.org
We are a 120-bed skilled nursing home and rehabilitation facility with 80 private rooms and 20 semi-private rooms. SOME OF OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Short-term Rehabilitation following a qualifying Hospital Stay • Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy • Pastoral Care/Daily Mass • Social Opportunities Private Pay, Long-Term Care Insurance, Medicare and Medicaid Accepted C’est la Vie Independent Living Center 34 Individual Apartments in a Safe and Secure Environment
MIA BEN, M.D., F.A.A.P.
A L L K I D S Pediatrics of Opelousas
A Professional Medical Corporation
Fellow American Academy of Pediatrics - Board Certified
Caring For ALL Kids – 0-18 Years Hours: Monday-Wednesday, Friday - 8 am-5 pm, Thursday 8 am-12 pm 920 North Main Street Opelousas, LA 70570
(337) 407-8697 Fax (337) 407-9096
Prairie Manor Nursing Home “The House That Prayer Built” Prairie Manor Nursing Home is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to provide the highest quality care utilizing the skills and knowledge of the entire staff. • 24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Speech Therapy • Physical Therapy • Short-Term • Occupational Therapy Rehabilitation
For more information or to tour our facility, please call (337) 599-2031 1050 Edwin Elliott Drive, Pine Prairie, LA 70576 | www.prairiemanor.org
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St. Landry Parish. In sickness and in health.
Just like you, LHC Group is proud to call St. Landry Parish home. With four convenient locations, we offer the services you need for every stage of life. That means a seamless care experience for you and those you love.
St. Landry HomeCare
St. Landry Extended Care Hospital
337.948.8988
337.948.5184
Home health helps patients of all ages recover from illness or injury in the comfort of home. Our caring team of registered nurses, home
When a patient has medically complex needs that require special
health aides, licensed practical nurses and medical social workers comes together every day to deliver the expert care you need. We also offer physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to help you heal.
attention and care, long-term acute care may be the most appropriate option. Our comprehensive and aggressive medical team is specially trained to care for patients with medically complex needs that require a prolonged recovery time. Our facility is conveniently located inside Opelousas General Hospital.
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Louisiana Family Fitness Center
337 .948.8835
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Our hospice professionals help patients live with dignity when a
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needs, as well as those of your loved ones.
classes, two swimming pools and racquetball courts.
all about helping people. I It's L�uC p LHCgroup.com a O
G
C 2015, LHG Group Inc. All �ghts reserved.
J. Fr azer Ga ar, M.D. ThoMas BuTauD, M.D. Gary PoruBsky, M.D. PhilliP Bacilla, Jr ., M.D. DaviD B. clause, M.D.
Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center ALL Private Rooms • PHYSICAL THERAPY • OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY • SPEECH THERAPY • IV THERAPY
Call and Schedule a Tour Today!
Serving Opelousas and surrounding areas since 1968. Our physicians are all board certified with over 150 years of combined experience. Our knowledgeable staff is here to assist you with years of Orthopaedic experience. • Orthopaedic & Arthroscopic Surgery • Sports Medicine • Diagnosis & Treatment of Joint Injury & Disease • Joint Replacement • Knee Replacement • Hip Replacement
7941 I-49 South Service Road • Opelousas, LA 70570
Telephone: 337-942-7588 Fax: 337-942-7393 HeritageManorOpelousas.com
Opelousas Orthopaedic Clinic 4015 I-49 South Service Road • Opelousas, LA 70570
(337) 942-6503 Minutes away from Opelousas and Lafayette in Historic Arnaudville, LA
J. Michael Morrow memorial nursing home
A Home Away From Home EST. 1984
883 Main Street Arnaudville, LA 70512
337.754.7703 SoMe of our ServiceS incLude: ❦ 175-bed Skilled Nursing in fireproof facility
❦ Generator ensures zero electrical down time during outages
❦ Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy
❦ Transportation Services available
❦ Pastoral Care/Religious Services
❦ Beauty and Barber Shop jmmorrownursinghome.com
Do You Have Pain? Pain Management You are the expert about how you are feeling. Be sure to tell your doctor or nurse when you have any kind of pain. To help describe your pain, be sure to report: n When the pain began. n Where you feel pain. n How the pain feels – sharp, dull, throbbing, burning, tingling. n If the pain is constant, or if it comes and goes. n What, if anything, makes the pain feel better. n What, if anything, makes the pain feel worse. n How much, if any, pain your medicine is taking away. n If your medicine helps with the pain, how many hours of relief do you get? Use the Pain Rating Scale to tell your doctor or nurse how severe your pain is.
Pain Scales 0 No Pain
0
1-3 Mild Pain
1
2
4-6 Moderate Pain
3
4
5
6
7-10 Severe Pain
7
8
9
10
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Food and Drug Interaction Guide
T
his information is about possible interactions between many common prescriptions and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications with food, alcohol and caffeine. This should not replace the advice from your physician, pharmacist or other health care professional. If you have any questions or concerns about possible drug interactions, consult your health care professional. Make sure your doctor and pharmacist know about every drug you are taking, including nonprescription drugs and any dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals and herbals. If you have problems or experience side effects related to medication, call your health care provider right away. It also is important to remember that many drugs interact with other drugs and may cause serious medical conditions.
Drug-To-Drug Interaction Herbal Medicine Not only can drugs interact with food and alcohol, they also can interact with each other. Some drugs are given together on purpose for an added effect, like codeine and acetaminophen for pain relief. But other drugto-drug interactions may be untended and harmful. Prescription drugs can interact with each other, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and cold medicine, and herbal medications, such as Coumadin and Sawpalmetto. ****Sometimes the effect of one drug may be increased or decreased. For example, grapefruit juice may enhance the effects of calcium channel blocker blood pressure medications such as Procardia or Adalat. ****Adalat should be taken on an empty stomach and Procardia with a meal. Antifungals such as Diflucan or Sporanox can increase the effects of Coumadin and decrease the effects of oral contraceptives. Diflucan and Sporanox also can interfere with the way cholesterol medications, such as Lipitor, Baycol, Zocor, are broken down by the body. This can increase the risk of a serious side effect. ***Diuretics such as Lasix cause the body to lose potassium while others, such as Dyazide, conserve potassium. Ace inhibitors such as Capoten, Vasotec, Prinivil, Zestril cause the body to retain potassium. Fosamax, a drug to prevent osteoporosis, should be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, and you remain upright, standing or sitting for 30 minutes. 24
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Coumadin (Warfarin)** The activity of Coumadin in the body is affected by many drugs, foods and herbal medications. There are over 300 recognized drug-to-drug interactions with Coumadin. Coumadin helps to prevent the formation of clots by inhibiting clotting factors in the blood that are dependent on vitamin K. Meals with high content of vitamin K containing foods may inhibit action of Coumadin.
Foods with High Vitamin K Content Mayonnaise . . . . . . . . 7 tbsp Oils: Canola, salad, soybean . . . . . . 7 tbsp Broccoli . . . . . . . . . . . ½ cup Brussel sprouts . . . 5 sprouts Cabbage . . . . . . . . 1-1/2 cup Collard greens . . . . . . ½ Cup Cucumber peel raw . . . 1 cup Kale raw leaf . . . . . . . ¾ cup Mustard greens . . 1-1/2 cup Spinach raw leaf . 1-1/2 cup Turnip greens raw 1-1/2 cup Watercress raw . . . . . . 3 cups Some herbs and herbal teas also affect the activity of Coumadin. Be sure your doctor and pharmacist know all medications, herbals, teas and OTC medications you are taking.
How to Use the Interaction Chart The chart is organized by drug use and drug classification. Trade name examples of each class are included for ease of use. An x in a column designates how a medication should or should not be taken, and some common drugfood interactions if taken together. For instance, an x in no dairy products or antacids does not mean you cannot have dairy products or antacids, it means you should not take them with your medication. Empty stomach indicates your medication should be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Most medications are better absorbed on an empty stomach. However, if you experience GI upset taking your meds on an empty stomach, it may be acceptable to take with food.
DISEASE/CLASS
WITH EMPTY NO NO DAIRY *FOOD NO **** ** *** FOOD STOMACH OR EMPTY ALCOHOL CAFFEINE PRODUCTS SEE POTASSIUM SEE OR ANTACIDS PAGE 24 PAGE 24 PAGE 24 STOMACH
ARTHRITIS AND PAIN Analgesic/Antipyretic Acetaminophen/Tylenol Non-Steroidal (NSAISs) Aspirin, Motrin, Advil Aleve, Celebrex, Vioxx, Naprosyn Corticosteroids Medrol, Deltasone, Pediapred Narcotic/Analgesic Tylenol #2, 3, 4, Roxanol, MS Contin, Percocet, Percodan, Vicodin, Lortab
x x
x x
x
x x
x
x
x
CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS Diuretics - Lasix, Dyazide, Maxzide, Burnex Beta Blockers - Tenormin, Lopressor, Inderal, Coreg Trandate Nitrates - Isordil, Sorbitrate, Nitrostate, Nitrodur Calcium Channel Blockers Calan, Norvasc, Cardizem, Tiazac Procardia, Adalat**** ACE Inhibitors Prinivil, Zestril, Capoten, Vasotec, Accupril, Altace Cholesterol Drugs-Statins Lipitor, Baycol, Pravachol, Zocor Mevacor ***** Anticoagulants - Coumadin
x
x
x
x
x x
x x x
x
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x x
x
x
x
INFECTIONS Penicillins Pen VK, Amoxil, Omnipen, Quinolones Cipro, Levaquin, Tequin Cephalosporins Ceclor, Duricef, Suprax, Ceftin, Keflex, Keftabs Macrolides Zithromax, Biaxin, E-Mycin Sulfonamides - Bactrim, Septra Tetracycline’s Achromycin, Sumycin, Vibramycin, Minocin Nitroimidazole - Flagyl Antifungals - Diflucan, Nizoral, Sporanox, Lamisil ANTI-ANXIETY Ativan, Valium, Xanax
x
x
x
x
x x x
x
x
x
x x x x
x x x x
x x x x x
x
x
x x
x x
x
x
*Take on an empty stomach; if you get an upset stomach, take with food or milk. *****Mevacor should be taken with the evening meal to enhance effectiveness. www.opelousasgeneral.com 337-948-3011 :
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Don’t Leave Until… 5 things to know before you walk out that hospital door
W
hen 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, at left). 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.
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.
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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 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. You can request to meet with a discharge planner at any time during your hospital stay.
Make Sure You Have The Following Information Before You Leave The Hospital: 1. Medications List This is a listing of what medications you are taking, why, in what dosage and who prescribed them. (You’ll already have this if you use the My Medications form on page 40 to keep track while you’re in the hospital.) But also having a list prepared by the hospital is a good way to double-check the information. Always carry this list with you and provide to all physicians who see you after discharge. 2. Rx A prescription will be provided for any medications you need in order for you to fill at your local pharmacy. 3. Discharge Instructions For Patients 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, 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
4. 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. 5. 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.
Be sure to meet with the hospital’s case manager early in your stay to ensure a smooth discharge process later on.
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Don’t Leave Until
. . . continued
Home Health Care Part-time health care provided by medical professionals in a patient’s home to maintain or restore health. It includes a range of skilled services, including part-time nursing care, therapy and assistance with daily activities. Medicare defines home health care as intermittent, physician-ordered medical services or treatment.
Independent Living Communities for seniors who are very independent and have few medical problems. Residents live in private apartments. Meals, housekeeping, maintenance, and social outings and events are provided.
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Medical equipment that is ordered by a doctor for use in a patient’s home. Examples are walkers, crutches, wheelchairs and hospital beds. DME is paid for under Medicare Part B and Part A for home health services.
Nursing Home A residential facility for people with chronic illness or disability, particularly elderly people who need assistance for most or all of their daily living activities such as bathing, dressing and toileting. Nursing homes provide 24-hour skilled care and also are called convalescent homes or long-term care facilities. Many nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays for patients recovering from an injury or illness. Some facilities also have a separate unit for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss.
Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers. Patients spend time in programs such as adult daycare or in weeklong or monthlong stays in a care facility.
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Assisted Living An apartment in a long-term care facility for elderly or disabled people who can no longer live on their own but who don’t need a high level of care. Assisted-living facilities provide assistance with medications, meals in a cafeteria or restaurant-like setting and housekeeping services. Nursing staff is on-site. Most facilities have social activities and provide transportation to doctors’ appointments, shopping, etc.
Hospice A licensed or certified program that provides care for people who are terminally ill and their families. Hospice care can be provided at home, in a hospice or other freestanding facility, or within a hospital. Also referred to as palliative care, hospice care emphasizes the management of pain and discomfort and addresses the physical, spiritual, emotional, psychological, financial, and legal needs of the patient and his or her family.
Preparing for Discharge Going Home When your doctor feels that you are ready to leave the hospital, he or she will authorize a hospital discharge. Please speak with your nurse about our discharge procedures. Here are a few tips to make the discharge process run smoothly: n Be sure you and/or your caregiver has spoken with a discharge planner and you understand what services you may need after leaving the hospital. (See Don’t Leave Until… on page 26 for more discharge advice.) n Verify your discharge date and time with your nurse or doctor. n Have someone available to pick you up. n With newborns, infants and children, make arrangements in advance to have a car seat brought to the hospital prior to discharge. n Check your room, bathroom and bedside table carefully for any personal items. n Make sure you or your caregiver has all necessary paperwork for billing, referrals, prescriptions, etc. n Patients may be picked up under the canopy at the main entrance of the hospital. Billing: What a Hospital Bill Covers 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.
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. At any time during your hospital stay, you can request to meet with a discharge planner to assist in your transition home or answer any further questions you might have.
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 you have the final responsibility for payment of your hospital bill.
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Preparing for Discharge Commercial Insurance As a service to our customers, we will forward a claim to your commercial insurance carrier based on the information you provide at the time of registration. It is very important for you to provide all related information such as policy number, group number and the correct mailing address for your insurance company. Uninsured? If you are in need of assistance with your hospital billing, you can contact Hospital Financial Counseling at 337-948-3011, ext. 3763
. . . continued
Coordination of Benefits (COB) Coordination of Benefits, referred to as COB, is a term used by insurance companies when you are covered under two or more insurance policies. This usually happens when husband and wife are listed on each other’s insurance policies, or when both parents carry their children on their individual policies, or when there is eligibility under two federal programs. This also can occur when you are involved in a motor vehicle accident and have medical insurance and automobile insurance. Most insurance companies have COB provisions that determine who is the primary payer when medical expenses are incurred. This prevents duplicate payments. COB priority must be identified at admission in order to comply with insurance guidelines. Your insurance may request a completed COB form before paying a claim, and every attempt will be made to notify you if this occurs. The hospital cannot provide this information to your insurance company. You must resolve this issue with your insurance carrier in order for the claim to be paid. Medicare This hospital is an approved Medicare provider. All services billed to Medicare follow federal guidelines and procedures. Medicare has a COB clause. At the time of service, you will be asked to answer questions to help determine the primary insurance carrier paying for your visit. This is referred to as an MSP Questionnaire and is required by federal law. Your assistance in providing accurate information will allow us to bill the correct insurance company. Medicare deductibles and coinsurance are covered by your secondary insurance. If you do not have secondary insurance, you will be asked to pay these amounts or establish a payment plan. If you are unable to pay these amounts, we will help you determine if you qualify for a state funded program.
For Self-Pay Patients Patient Financial Services Department will send statements for payment of self-pay accounts. You will receive two to three billing statements and two to three telephone calls over a 90-day period to obtain a 30
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payment or make payment arrangements. If payment arrangements are not established and no payment is made during the 90-day period, the account will be placed with a collection agency. If you need an itemized statement, you can obtain one by calling our Customer Service Department at the number listed below or by using the website at www.opelousasgeneral.com. If you have any questions regarding your billing statement, you can contact the patient Financial Services Department at 337-948-3011 ext. 3763.
Ways to Voice Your Concerns Your concerns are very important to us, and we would appreciate the opportunity to resolve them. Concerns/complaints about your care can be voiced to your caregiver, unit coordinator, patient representative or department manager. They will attempt to resolve your concerns and involve other staff, if necessary.
Patient Satisfaction Survey You may receive a patient satisfaction survey by mail after you are discharged from the hospital. Please take the time to complete it. This is a very important tool that offers Opelousas General Health System the opportunity to improve the delivery of our services and reward our staff for positive efforts. Your feedback is very helpful.
A patient representative may be reached at ext. 3699 or ext. 3224 Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For nights and weekends, please contact your nurse or charge nurse. A formal grievance may be filed by administration on your behalf through the Grievance Committee. A written response to your formal grievance will be communicated to you. If you feel that your issue was not resolved, patients have the right to file grievances with the state’s Department of Health and Hospitals, Standards Section, 866-280-7737, P.O. Box 3767, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-3676. Medicare beneficiaries may contact the peer review organization, Louisiana Health Care Review, 225-926-6353, for grievances concerning quality of care or noncoverage. If you wish to speak with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations regarding any concerns, call 800-994-6610.
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For the Caregiver CAREGIVER... know what condition your loved one is being treated for
Your role as a patient advocate
PATIENT’S RIGHTS know your patient’s rights and responsibilities (See page 14) ADVANCE DIRECTIVES? know whether or not your loved one has an advance directive and if so, what it specifies (See page 20) 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 13) 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 My Medications on page 40 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
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hile 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 left. 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.
Giving Back Helping Us Help Others Opelousas General Health System is committed to providing quality health care regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. You can help us help others by making a contribution to the OGHS Foundation. Your gift also will help us enhance our services, programs and facilities to better care for our community. Tax-deductible gifts can be made in the form of cash, check, credit card or stocks. You also may remember Opelousas General Health System in your will and through life insurance, among other gift options. For more information, contact the OGHS Foundation director at ext. 3499
Volunteer The lives you touch may include your own! n Gain new skills n Meet new people n Make use of your talents n Explore career possibilities n Gain personal satisfaction Benefits of Volunteering n Live a healthier and happier life n Free meal while providing service in Lil’ General Café n Free cup of coffee in the coffee shop n Gift Shop Discounts – 20 percent on all regular purchases n Uniforms are provided n Recognition is ongoing Volunteer Opportunities The goal of Volunteer Services is to match your interests and talents with available volunteer opportunities. n Greeters / Escorts – Volunteers help with escorting patients to their service areas or physician offices. As a volunteer, you provide the information and direction patients, their families and friends need when entering the hospital.
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Giving Back
. . . continued
n Clerical Volunteer – Greeters welcome and assist patients and visitors to the hospital by providing a warm and friendly atmosphere to incoming guests. Greeters are stationed at entrances and make hospital visits easier for patients, families and visitors by giving directions and information. n Gift Shop Volunteer – The Lobby Shop is an important part of OGHS. Caring individuals and a wonderful atmosphere make it a pleasure to visit. Patients and families enjoy browsing the beautiful shop for a gift item for someone special. Volunteers are needed to help with customer service and delivery. n Volunteer Couriers – Couriers contribute an essential service to OGHS by delivering necessary items for hospital departments. n Volunteer Hostess – Volunteers provide warm and friendly hospitality to patients, their families and friends during their hospital stay. Volunteers visit patient areas and offer patients and their visitors free coffee and magazines. n ER Volunteers – Volunteers assist personnel with nonprofessional tasks and acts as a liaison to patients and visitors. Volunteers provide helpful and courteous interaction with all patients and visitors, thereby enhancing the support patients and their families need. n Healing Garden – A place of beauty and tranquility for patients, their families, employees, volunteers and the community. Volunteers are needed to help maintain the garden. For information, contact the Office of Volunteer Service at 337-4074447 or email: ritastoute@opelousasgeneral.com.
Organ and Tissue Donation Opelousas General Health System recognizes the rights of patients and their families to pursue the opportunity to donate organs and/or tissue. OGHS works in conjunction with the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency to provide information to anyone who may be interested in organ/tissue donation. Organs that can be transplanted include heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, pancreas and small intestine. Tissues that can be transplanted include heart valves, corneas, bones of the lower extremities, ligaments, tendons and blood vessels. Donation is free; there is no cost to the family of the donor. Donation is similar to surgery; therefore, you can still have a normal funeral with an open casket. Families should discuss their wishes regarding organ and tissue donation. A legal next of kin must sign a consent form before any donation recovery may take place. For further information, you can call LOPA at (800) 521-4483.
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Resources Staff Definitions Physicians Your primary care physician, a resident physician on duty or a hospitalist will supervise your care while you are in the hospital. Nurses In each nursing unit, a registered nurse is responsible for supervising patient care and directing the nursing and support staff of the unit. Registered nurses are assisted by licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants and unit secretaries. The nursing staff is available around the clock. Dietitians Ext. 5296 A registered dietitian will review your medical record and work with your health care team to develop a nutrition care plan for you. Registered dietitians also are available to educate you about any diets you may need to follow after you are discharged. Rehabilitation Therapists Ext. 5167 Physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists and audiologists will work with you, your family and your medical team to help meet goals of recovery. Therapy may range from brief consultation to long-term intervention, based on the extent of your injuries or illness.
Technicians and Technologists Ext. 5127 Skilled health professionals perform and assist with laboratory and other procedures, including X-rays, mammograms, ultrasound, CT scans, MRIs, cardiac catheterization, radiation therapy and other procedures that help in diagnosing and treating your illness or injury. Case Managers and Social Workers Ext. 5128 Case managers will review your medical record and discuss your discharge plan. They also are available to assist you with arrangement for home care, admission to a long-term care facility or rehabilitation care. Social workers offer emotional support, counseling and guidance to help patients and their families deal with financial, social and emotional problems related to illness or hospitalization. Pharmacists Ext. 5133 While you are in the hospital, all of your medications are dispensed by our hospital pharmacists. They can answer any questions you have regarding your medications. Chaplain Please ask your nurse for assistance. A group of volunteer priests and ministers is available to all patients and their families. A prayer ministry is available for the sharing of prayer with staff members. Please contact your nurse to request these services. A chapel is on the first floor across from the Lobby Shop and Lil’ General CafÊ.
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Resources
. . . continued
Volunteers Volunteers give thousands of hours each year to our hospital to enhance the care of our patients and their families. They provide support throughout the hospital, including staffing the information desk, delivering mail and flowers, operating the gift shop and escorting patients.
PAGE Group (People Actively Growing Emotionally) Developing healthy relationships, enhancing communication skills and behavior modification. Meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays. For more information, call the Education Center at 337-594-3825.
Hospital Resources Support Programs Offered to the Community by Opelousas General Health System
Safe Sitter A medically accurate program that teaches youngsters ages 11-13 how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. For more information, please call the Education Center at 337-594-3801.
Health Care Provider and Heart Saver/AED These CPR courses are intended for members of the community to aid in the early intervention of victims of cardiac arrest. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call the Education Center at 337-594-3825. Camp Azzie Fun and education for children ages 6 to 13 years of age that have asthma. For more information, call the Cardiopulmonary Lab at 337-948-5186. Heart Saver Pediatric First Aid This course provides education for child care providers to care for victims within the first five minutes of an accident or medical emergency. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call the Education Center at 337-594-3825.
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Shots for Tots Immunization for infants, children and young adults to age 18. For more information, call the OB Department at 337-948-5148. Life’s Champions A program for those age 55 plus that offers education, social events, newsletter and discounts in the hospital gift shop and cafeteria. For more information, call 337-407-4577.
Caregiver Resources www.aoa.gov Caregiver resources from the Administration on Aging www.caregiving.com Online support groups and articles on caregiving Eldercare Locator 800-677-1116 www.eldercare.gov Help with locating aging services throughout the U.S. 800-MEDICARE www.medicare.gov–then search for caregivers Official U.S. government site for people with Medicare National Alliance for Caregiving www.caregiving.org Support for family caregivers and the professionals who serve them Caregiver Action Network 202-454-3970 www.caregiversaction.org Support for caregivers of chronically ill, aged or disabled loved ones
Suicide Crisis Hotline 800-272-TALK (8255) Mental Health Advocacy Service 800-428-5432 or 225-342-6678 Child Abuse Reporting 855-452-5437 (1-855-4LA-KIDS) Adult Abuse Reporting 800-898-4910 St. Landry Parish Sexual Assault Response 337-585-4673 St. Landry Abilities To support families with children with different disabilities. 337-351-1332 Elderly Abuse Reporting 318-332-2131 Abuse from Another Licensed Facility 225-342-0138 National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 Battered Women’s Shelter 337-948-5974 TTY for Hearing Impaired 800-787-3224
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OGHS Active Medical Staff ANESTHESIOLOGY Dr. Jason Fontenot Dr. Albert Gros Dr. Mark Lemaire CARDIOLOGY Dr. Siby Ayalloore Dr. Michael Dibbs Dr. Clay Hammett Dr. Robert Menuet, II Dr. Kalyan Veerina DERMATOLOGY Dr. Michael Doucet EAR, NOSE, & THROAT Dr. Kim Dakin Dr. Chester Finley EMERGENCY Dr. Brad Boudreaux Dr. William Cothern Dr. Chester Dellinger Dr. Asuquo Esuabana Dr. Craig Frederick Dr. Nicholas Fruge Dr. Patrick Gillespie Dr. Greg Glowacki Dr. Guy Godeaux Dr. Thomas Guillot Jr. Dr. Dan Hebert Dr. Nicole Augusta Lafleur
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Dr. Michael Lee Dr. Christopher Matt Dr. Stacey Mayeaux Dr. Mark Olivier Dr. Natalie Phillips Dr. Randal Lee Pilgrim Dr. Charles Richard Jr. Dr. Kondilo Skirlis-Zavala Dr. Luther Stewart Dr. Joseph Thomas Jr.
FAMILY PRACTICE Dr. Michael Basile Dr. Laura Braham Dr. Michael Burnell Dr. Elizabeth Collins Dr. Jamie Collins Dr. Lee Ellender Dr. Kirk Elliott Dr. Freddie Fandal, Jr. Dr. Michael Felton Dr. Patrick Gillespie Dr. Craig Greene Dr. Kevin Guillory Dr. Ty Hargroder Dr. Jason Hatfield Dr. Richard Harmon Dr. LaTonya Kelly Dr. Stacy Mayeaux Dr. Derek Metoyer Dr. Lana Metoyer Dr. Michael Montgomery Dr. Luris Sanchez Dr. Adenike Tinubu Dr. Calvin White
GASTROENTEROLOGY Dr. Scott Boagni INFECTIOUS DISEASE Dr. Vitalis Okechukwu INTERNAL MEDICINE Dr. Usman Alam Dr. Fernando Alemany Dr. Gary Blanchard Dr. Hunt DeBlanc Dr. John Guidry Dr. Leah Olivier Dr. Louis Nix Dr. Shirley Robertson Dr. Richard Tate NEPHROLOGY Dr. Raphael Higginbotham Dr. Michael Liu Dr. Paul Miller OB/GYN Dr. Damian Badeaux Dr. Thomas Jarnagin Dr. John Kempf Dr. Louis Kerkhoff Dr. Andre Pinac, III Dr. Rachael Tate
ONCOLOGY Dr. James Cole Dr. Bahman Daneshfar Dr. Debra Johnson Dr. Molly Thomas OPHTHALMOLOGY Dr. Zvi Aviner Dr. Clarence Billingsley Dr. Robert Casanova, Jr. Dr. Lionel Smith ORTHOPEDICS Dr. Phillip Bacilla, Jr. Dr. David Clause Dr. Gary Porubsky Dr. George R. Williams PAIN MANAGEMENT Dr. Stephen Wyble PATHOLOGY Dr. Stephanie Hanson Dr. Chrissy Lalonde Dr. Debbie Lastrapes Dr. Karen Simpson
PEDIATRICS Dr. Mia Ben Dr. Charles Bertrand Dr. Allison Hatfield Dr. Carmen Johnson Dr. Carmen Koubicek Dr. Sarah Latiolais Dr. Geneva LeJeune Dr. Emily Simon PHYSIATRY Dr. Joseph Bozelle, Jr. PODIATRY Dr. George Smith PSYCHIATRY Dr. Sarwat Gad Dr. Philip Landry Dr. Lisa Menuet PULMONOLOGY Dr. José Santiago
RADIOLOGY Dr. Gerard Ballanco, Jr. Dr. James Godchaux, Jr. Dr. Richard Lastrapes Dr. Robert McReynolds, Jr. Dr. Paula Sharkey Dr. Edward Willett SLEEP MEDICINE Dr. J.Y. Bordelon Dr. Louis Nix SURGERY Dr. Eric Amy Dr. Tom Castille Dr. Kerry Thibodeaux Dr. Salvador Vazquez UROLOGY Dr. Marcellus Lahaye Dr. Fred Rodosta Dr. John Vallee
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My Medications Keep track of all medications you are prescribed while in the hospital.
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hen you get home add all other medications—including over-the-counter, vitamins and herbs—to this list. Update your list as needed. Give this list to any physician you will see after discharge. Always carry this list with you for emergencies. 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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Word Search P S C I R T A I D E P D N M E I N F E C T I O N I W X G E R K E K X T D T H S E E M O D A K E T R Y H Y U F R S S U I C N Z A L E E R V I J H R D C E F E Q R A G L A D E G L U I B H R A Z E N H N E G Y X O N T U P C O Y C T H X F B E D E N Y Z N D L H O I V E N B P F E J T N E O S B V C V C J A S M Z X E H P C O Z E E I J T A T M H J I L C T Y A R X R I F A W T T H V U L O L F Y W E E E B A T Y C N E G R E M E N T R L X W K B A N D A G E L T Y T OXYGEN PATIENT PEDIATRICS RECOVERY SAFETY SNEEZE SURGEON THERAPY TREATMENT WHEELCHAIR XRAY
How did you do? Check your answers below. P S C I R T A I D E P D N M E I N F E C T I O N I W X G E R K E K X T D T H S E E M O D A K E T R Y H Y U F R S S U I C N Z A L E E R V I J H R D C E F E Q R A G L A D E G L U I X H R A Z E N H N E G Y X O N T U P C O Y C T H X F B E D E N Y Z N D L H O I V E N B P F E J T N E O S B V C V C J A S M Z X E H P C O Z E E I J T A T M H J I L C T Y A R X R I F A W T T H V U L O L F Y W E E E B A T Y C N E G R E M E N T R L X W K B A N D A G E L T Y T
BANDAGE BED CARE DOCTOR EMERGENCY FEVER HEART HOSPITAL INFECTION MEDICINE NURSE
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Acute-Care Infection Prevention If you or a loved one is visiting a hospital (also known as an acute-care facility) for surgery or another medical procedure, there are some important things you need to know to prevent infections.
Why is infection prevention important for patients in hospitals? nA ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 25 people in the U.S. gets healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in hospitals each year. Unfortunately, nearly 75,000 people in hospitals die each year with these infections. nP neumonia, central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), methicillin-resistant Staphyloccocus aureus (MRSA), vancomycinresistant Enterococci (VRE), Clostridium difficile (C. difficile), surgical site infections (SSI), and catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) are the common HAIs that occur in hospital settings. nT hese infections are caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. nH AIs cause more illness to the patient, prolong hospital stay, and increase health care costs. What can patients do: nR emind your health care provider (nurses, doctors, respiratory techs, etc.) to clean their hands before caring for you. This is especially important if they are handling a dressing or touching an incision. Cleaning hands is still important even if they will be putting on gloves.
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n I f you have a urinary catheter, do not pull or twist the catheter tubing. n I f you go home with a catheter, wash your hands before and after touching it. nB rush your teeth at least twice a day, be as active as allowed, and perform breathing exercises, if instructed by your healthcare provider. This helps prevent pneumonia. n I f you have an intravenous catheter, avoid touching it and don’t get it wet. Notify your nurse or doctor if the bandage becomes wet, dirty or comes off. nP rior to surgery or another procedure, discuss other health problems that you have with your doctor. n I f you have diabetes, it is especially important to follow your diabetic diet carefully in the weeks before surgery. nS top smoking, at least until after you have recovered from surgery. What patients can observe/ask: nA sk your health care provider to clean his or her hands before he or she touches you. It’s okay to ask him or her to clean his or her hands if you have not seen him or her do so. n I f you have a urinary catheter, ask if the catheter is necessary and how long it will be in place. Make sure your health care professional cleans his or her hands before touching and inserting the urinary catheter. n I f you have a urinary catheter, make sure the urine bag is always kept below the bladder to prevent back flow of urine from the bag.
n I f you have a central line, make sure the person inserting the line has washed his or her hands and that they also are wearing sterile gloves and gown, a cap, and a face mask. nM ake sure your skin is cleaned with antiseptic and allowed to dry before a centrally placed intravenous catheter is inserted; also make sure your entire body, including your face, is covered with a sterile drape. nB efore anything is injected into the central line, make sure that the health care professional scrubs the entry port vigorously for at least 15 seconds. nA sk when your central line can be discontinued. n I f your health care provider has prescribed you antibiotics, be sure to ask the following questions: 1. Do I really need an antibiotic? 2. Can I get better without this antibiotic? 3. What side effects or drug interactions can I expect? 4. What side effects should I report to you? 5. How do you know what kind of infection I have? I understand that antibiotics won’t work for viral infections.
What family members or other visitors can do: nC lean their hands before and after visiting you. nD on’t touch any surgical wounds or dressings. nO bserve that the health care professional cleans his or her hands before touching the patient. It’s okay to ask him or her to clean his or her hands if you haven’t seen him or her do so. n I f the patient you are visiting is on a ventilator, ask his or her nurse if oral hygiene is performed daily. nD o not play or handle the patient’s ventilator tube.
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Notes and Questions ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ 44
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LA0176G15
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St. Landry Parish.
In sickness and in health.
337.948.8988
337.948.5184 337.948.8835 337.942.1326
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Dr. Elizabeth Collins Dr. Jamie Collins Collins Family Clinic 127 Acorn Dr., Suite B Sunset, LA 337-662-4075
Dr. Jason Hatfield 827 N. Union St. Opelousas, LA 337-948-1802
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Dr. Sarah Latiolais
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Lily Pad Pediatrics 1270 Attakaps Drive, Suite 501 Opelousas, LA 337-942-4453
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Dr. Emily FrugĂŠ Simon