MISSION STATEMENT

If you anticipate that several people will be checking on your condition while you are in the hospital, it would be helpful if you would designate one person to communicate your condition to others. This "spokesperson" can assist by: • Helping you put together a list of people who you wish to be updated on your condition. • Obtaining and sharing regular condition reports with those on your list. • Helping establish times for visitations. • Informing visitors of what they can do for you or bring you. "Patient Privacy Practices," including federal law, prohibit hospital team members from disclosing confidential patient information without your express permission. To ensure your privacy, your nurse, with your assistance, will assign a code word specific to you. This will assist staff in identifying your chosen spokesperson when they call for information on your condition. * Please tell your nurse if you would like to limit your visitors or phone calls. You may also choose to be a "secure patient" which means your information will not appear on the hospital census. Callers and visitors will be told that we have no such patient on our census. Anyone wishing to receive information regarding your care would need to receive it directly from you or someone you designate to receive and give information.

PATIENT SAFETY

Patient safety is our first priority at Bakersfield Heart Hospital. Our goal is to ensure expert medical care in the safest environment possible. As a patient, you play a vital role in your own safety by becoming an active, involved and informed member of your health care team. When you are an active partner in your care, you can help prevent errors. Remember to "SPEAK UP™" by following these suggestions from The Joint Commission: Speak up if you have questions or concerns. It is okay to ask questions until you understand. It's your body and you have a right to know. Pay attention to the care you get. Always make sure you're getting the right treatments and medicines by the right health care professionals. Don't assume anything. Educate yourself about your illness. Learn about the medical tests you get and your treatment plan. Ask about the results of your diagnostic tests. Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate (advisor or supporter). Know what medicines you take and why you take them. Medicine errors are the most common health care mistakes. Tell your health care providers about medications, vitamins and herbals you are taking. Make sure you know what your doctor has ordered for you, including why and how you are to take particular medications. Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center, or other type of health care organization that has been carefully checked out. Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of your health care team. Talk with your doctor and health care team about your options. If you would like, you have the right to a second opinion. When it involves your health or the health of your loved ones, don't be afraid to ask questions. Speak Up!

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MEDICATION SAFETY

We ask that you provide your nurse with a complete list of medications you are taking regularly, including dosage and times. This list should consist of prescription medications, herbals, over the-counter, and investigational medications. Your nurse will review this list with your physician, who will make a decision on which medications you should continue during your hospitalization. For your safety and protection, only those medications ordered by your physician will be given to you during your stay. Your nurse will provide these as ordered by your physician. Because of this, we ask that all medications brought with you, including aspirin, are returned home as they may interfere or interact with tests or medicines ordered for your treatment. Your nurse will ask you questions concerning any past reactions to medications and any allergies you may have. This also includes reactions or allergies to herbals, over-the-counter medications or foods. An allergy bracelet will be applied to your wrist to alert caregivers.

CONSENT FORMS

You may be asked to sign consent forms for certain types of procedures, tests, or treatments. Your physician will discuss and explain this with you and/or your family. It is important for you to understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives available to you whenever you are undergoing a procedure, test or treatment. If you do not understand what you are being asked to consent to, inform your nurse. Your physician will be contacted and further education will be provided.

ABOUT YOUR ROOM

Bakersfield Heart Hospital is designed for maximum efficiency. Patient rooms encircle nurses' "pods," so your needs may be met as quickly as possible. All patient rooms are private and designed with comfort and convenience for both you and your family. Patient rooms also include a built-in cabinet for your personal belongings, a television, and a private bathroom. Your bed has electric controls, enabling you to make adjustments for your comfort. Side rails on the bed may be positioned up for your safety. To notify your nurse that you need assistance, press the call button located on your bed. In response, the staff may talk to you through an intercom system. You may answer in a normal voice, as the microphone in your room will pick up what you are saying. An emergency button is located next to the toilet. Pushing the button down or pulling the cord, alerts the staff that you are in need of help and they will respond to your needs quickly.