WY_Sage

PATIENT GUIDE Key Information For Your Stay

FACTS FOR YOUR STAY TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE 7 Easy Steps

ASK BEFORE DISCHARGE

Top 10 Questions

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At Westward Heights, we know heroes. Our team members are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those they serve and care for. So whether you are in need of rehabilitation or skilled nursing you’ll always find heroic care here.

Stop in for a visit today!

Outpatient Services

Expanded availability, including Saturdays Walk-In: • Lab screenings • X-ray • Suction clinics

Schedule: • CT, MRI • CPAP mask fitting • Physical therapy

To schedule or for more information, call 856.4161 in Riverton or 332.4420 in Lander.

Physician orders are required for specific procedures and tests, except direct access testing lab screenings.

Spot a Stroke

F. A. S. T. Face.

Arm.

Speech. Time to call 911.

StrokeAssociation.org

CO N T E N TS WELCOME & ABOUT US. . . . . . . . . . 2 PHONE DIRECTORY.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 OUR COMMITMENT TO CARE.. . . . 4 RAPID RESPONSE TEAM. . . . . . . . . . 5 FAST FACTS ABOUT YOUR STAY.. . 6 SPECIAL SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MEDICINES & SIDE EFFECTS. . . . . . . 18 MANAGE YOUR MEDS.. . . . . . . . . . . 21 PREVENT HOSPITAL INFECTIONS.. 22 USING ANTIBIOTICS SAFELY. . . . . . 24 RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES. . . . . . 25 YOUR PRIVACY MATTERS.. . . . . . . . 28 ADVANCE DIRECTIVES. . . . . . . . . . . 30 LEAVING THE HOSPITAL. . . . . . . . . . 31 AFTER-HOSPITAL CARE. . . . . . . . . . . 34

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Take Charge of Your Care

Speak Up, Plus 7 Key Ways to Take Charge of Your Care n My HealthPoint n Choose a Support Person n Check IDs n Pay Attention to Your Care n 5 Ways to Fight Infections n Don’t Ignore Pain n Prevent Falls n Prepare for Surgery n

On Our Cover Facts for Your Stay. . . . . . . . . . 6

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BILL. . . . . 35

Take Charge of Your Care 7 Easy Steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH. . . . . . . . . . 37 Heart Attack & Stroke Warning Signs Stop Smoking

Ask Before Discharge Top 10 Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . 33

ADULT VACCINES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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. ©2018 PatientPoint ®

Welcome & About Us Thank You for Choosing Us for Your Health Care Needs At SageWest Health Care, we consider it a privilege to serve the health care needs of our community members, and we want to thank you for choosing us for your care.

During your stay, our priority is delivering the highest quality of care available and ensuring that you have a comfortable and pleasant experience. And we know that critical to our success is making sure you have access to the information and resources you need, when you need it.

That is why we have developed this comprehensive patient guide, which we hope you find helpful and reassuring. It is full of information to help you during and after your stay, so please take a few minutes to look through it.

We realize that hospitalization can often be unsettling, and it is our sincere hope that you feel supported and well-cared-for while you are here. If you have any questions or concerns at any time during your stay, please let us know.

Again, thank you for choosing SageWest Health Care for your health care needs. It is our pleasure to serve you.

Sincerely, Your Hospital Care Team

About Us Our Mission: Making Communities HealthierŽ Our Vision: We want to create places where ‌ n People choose to come for health care, n Physicians want to practice, and n Employees want to work.

Our High Five Guiding Principles: Our High Five Guiding Principles guide our actions and decision making and define what communities can expect from us as a health care partner. They are: 1. Delivering high-quality patient care 2. Supporting physicians 3. Creating excellent workplaces for our employees 4. Taking a leadership role in our communities 5. Ensuring fiscal responsibility

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Phone Directory Key Numbers Main: Lander: 332.4420, Riverton: 856.4161 Billing: Lander: 335.6221, Riverton: 857.3575 Gift Shop: Lander: 335.6381 Nutrition Services: Lander: 335.6323, Riverton: 856.4161, ext. 334

Calling from INSIDE the hospital?

Dial the last four digits only.

OTHER HOSPITAL SERVICES Administration

Lander: 335.6498

Riverton: 857.3401

Case Management

Lander: 335.6508

Riverton: 857.5242

Central Scheduling

Lander: 335.6250

Riverton: 857.3463

Food Services

Lander: 335.6323

Riverton: 856.4161, ext. 334

Housekeeping

Lander: 335.6328

Riverton: 857.5237

Human Resources

Lander: 335.6580

Riverton: 857.3408

Information Desk

Lander: ext. 6896

Riverton: ext. 5000

Radiology/X-Ray

Lander: 335.6250

Riverton: 857.3578

For more information on the resources available at SageWest Health Care, visit SageWestHealthCare.com.

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Our Commitment to Care Patient Satisfaction Matters to Us Our goal is to provide the best quality care. To do so, we ask for feedback from patients like you. You may be contacted by phone, email or text and asked to complete a confidential survey. Please take the time to complete the survey. Your feedback will help us know what we’re doing well and where we can improve.

During Your Stay

Please speak with your nurse or nursing supervisor if you have any questions or concerns about your care. If your issue still is not resolved, then contact administration at 335.6498 in Lander or 857.3401 in Riverton. You also have the right to file your complaint with either: Wyoming Department of Health 6101 Yellowstone Rd., Suite 186C Cheyenne, WY 82002 307.777.7123 Fax: 307.777.7127

Office of Quality and Patient Safety The Joint Commission One Renaissance Blvd.

Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 800.994.6610 Email: patientsafetyreport@ jointcommission.org

Making a Difficult Health Care Decision?

Sometimes a health care choice can involve an ethical concern— such as a wish to refuse life-saving treatment or a disagreement over advance directives (see p. 30). Our medical ethics committee can help you and those who are here to support you make difficult decisions. For help, contact Case Management at 335.6418 in Lander or 857.3555 in Riverton.

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Rapid Response Team Special Support to Prevent Emergencies A highly trained group of individuals called the Rapid Response Team is in place at all times in the hospital. This team can be called at any time by you, or those who may be here with you, to check on any medical condition that is of concern before there is a life-threatening emergency.

WHEN to Call Rapid Response Call for help if you notice: n

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c hanges in heart rate or blood pressure c hange in respiratory (breathing) rate or oxygen levels c hanges in urine output (much more or less urine)

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c hange in mental status or level of consciousness a ny time you are worried something might be wrong a ny change in the patient’s condition that needs immediate attention

HOW to Call Rapid Response Step 1: Dial 6444 in Lander or 222 in Riverton on the bedside phone.

Step 2: Tell the operator: your name, room number, patient’s name and your concern.

Step 3: The Rapid Response Team will be sent to your room.

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Fast Facts About Your Stay An A-Z Guide to the Most Frequently Asked Questions Bedside Shift Report

We want you to feel comfortable and cared for throughout your stay, so at each nursing shift change— about every 12 hours—your nurse will introduce your new nurse to you. The team will talk about your progress, medicine and tests scheduled for the day.

Ask questions. The more you’re involved, the better and safer your care.

Bedside Technology

VISITING THE HOSPITAL?

Thanks for taking the time to support your loved one’s care and recovery.

See p. 8–9 for important visitor information.

During your stay, you may see your doctors and nurses using computers or tablets. These tools help them care for you by providing around-the-clock monitoring, a variety of resources and quick communication with the rest of your health care team. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or nurse.

Cafeteria

Location: Near the front entrance. Ask a staff member for directions.

Weekday Hours: Breakfast: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

All visitors are welcome to dine in the cafeteria.

Calling Your Nurse

Your room is connected to the nursing station via an intercom system. To call for your nurse, press the NURSE call button located on the hand-held set. If you have any questions on how to use the call button, ask a staff member to show you.

Electrical Appliances

Only battery-operated devices are allowed in patient rooms. Please ask your nurse before using electrical devices.

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Fire Safety

We conduct fire drills from time to time. If you hear an alarm, stay where you are. In an actual emergency, hospital staff will tell you what to do.

Flowers

Flowers are delivered to patient rooms by individual florists. Please check with the nurse before ordering flowers for patients in the Intensive Care Units.

Hearing Impaired

SageWest provides services for those who are hearing impaired.

Let your nurse know if you need these services.

Hospital Safe for Valuables

We recommend you do not bring valuables to the hospital. If needed, valuables can be placed in a lock box. For more information, please ask your nurse. SageWest Health Care is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal belongings.

Hourly Rounding

A nurse will visit you every hour during the day and every two hours at night to check on your comfort, help you change positions in bed, assist with trips to the bathroom, and make sure you can reach your phone, call light and personal items easily.

Housekeeping Services

Please call ext. 6328 in Lander or ext. 5237 in Riverton for room cleaning services.

Interpreters

SageWest uses Language Line overthe-phone interpretation services.

Mail

Mail and packages will be delivered to you. Mail received after you leave the hospital will be forwarded to your home address on file.

Medicines

Please do not bring any prescription or over-the-counter medicines to the hospital unless otherwise instructed. All medicines you take in the hospital need to be prescribed, filled and given to you by hospital staff. Tell your doctor about any medicines you regularly take. If you still need them, hospital staff will give them to you.

Pastoral Care

You and your loved ones can call upon a chaplain or minister of your choice. Simply ask your nurse to request these services.

Patient Meals

Our goal is to provide you with freshly prepared, heart-healthy meals while you are a guest with us at SageWest Health Care. For vegetarian, Kosher and glutenfree options, please call ext. 6323 in Lander or 856.4161, ext. 3347 in Riverton, or ask your nurse.

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Facts About Your Stay continued Personal Belongings and Valuables

Personal care items such as contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures can be stored in your bedside stand when not in use. Please do not put them on your bed or food tray to help avoid them being lost or damaged. Leave valuables like jewelry or cash at home, or give them to a trusted relative or friend to watch over.

SageWest Health Care cannot be responsible for replacing personal belongings.

Public Restrooms

For everyone’s health and safety, we ask visitors not to use patient restrooms. Public restrooms are located throughout the hospital.

Ask hospital staff to direct you to the nearest one.

Smoking

You’re not allowed to smoke anywhere in the hospital or on the hospital grounds.

Telephone

All patients have phones. To place a call within the hospital, dial the extension. To dial local, press 9 then the phone number. To dial long distance, please ask your nurse for assistance.

TV

Each patient room has a television.

Please be considerate of others by keeping the volume down and turning off your TV at bedtime.

TVs are controlled by the bedside pillow speaker or side rail controls.

Closed captioning is available for the hearing impaired. Ask a staff member if you have any questions about using your TV.

Visitation Policy SageWest Health Care understands that having loved ones by your side can help with your healing and care. You have the right to choose and prioritize visitors from among family, friends, partners, personal care aides or other individuals (regardless of the person’s gender or your relationship to the person). You also can choose a support person to be present throughout your stay, unless that person’s presence affects your health or the rights or safety of other patients. If you have any questions about your visitation rights, contact your nurse.

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Vending Machines

Here you can find beverages and snacks. Ask any staff member for directions to the nearest vending machine.

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Visiting Hours

To promote healing and safety and limit infection, some units may limit the number of visitors you can receive at one time.

General Hours General visiting hours are 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. except where otherwise designated by policy. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the nurse.

Visitor Guidelines.

We encourage well-wishers for emotional support and recovery.

To provide a restful and safe environment, we ask that visitors follow these guidelines:

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o more than five visitors per N patient in a room at one time.

This gives the patient a good environment for healing. o not visit if you have a cold, sore D throat, fever or other illness. void noisy, disruptive behavior A to help respect the healing of all patients. sk before bringing foods, drinks, A or other items like balloons, flowers or perfume that might trigger allergies into patient rooms. ash your hands or use an W alcohol rub before entering and when leaving a patient’s room. ake sure all children have a M supervising adult with them at all times.

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Take Charge of Your Care You are the center of your health care team. Let this special guide help you get the best results from your hospital stay.

Speak Up! If you have questions or concerns, you have the

right to ask and get a response from your doctor or nurse that makes sense to you. We encourage you and your family to become active partners on your health care team. To help, share your answers to these questions with hospital staff:

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hat language would you prefer W to speak?

n Do you need glasses, hearing

aids or other devices to help with talking to hospital staff?

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o you have any cultural, ethnic D or religious-based special needs?

n Who will be your support person

who talks with hospital staff about your health care wishes?

n Do you prefer to hear, see or

read health information?

Ask Yourself Is there anything else the hospital should be aware of to improve my care experience?

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7 Key Ways

TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE SPEAK UP. Ask questions and voice concerns.

It’s your body, and you have the right to know.

PAY ATTENTION. Always double-check that you are getting the right treatments and medicines from the right hospital staff.

EDUCATE YOURSELF. Learn about your medical condition, tests and treatment options, so you know why following your care plan is so important.

FIND A SUPPORT PERSON. Pick someone to help speak up for your care and needs during your stay.

KNOW YOUR MEDS. Understand what your medicines treat, why you need them and how to take them for the best results.

CHECK BEFORE YOU GO. Make an informed decision when selecting additional health care services. Choose only accredited providers who meet patient safety and quality standards. Go to qualitycheck.org to learn more.

PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CARE. You are the center of your health care team. Make sure you know what’s happening every step of the way—from admission through discharge.

Source: The content within the “Take Charge of Your Care” section reinforces the safety and quality care goals and standards issued by The Joint Commission and other hospital accreditation organizations.

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TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued

My HealthPoint My HealthPoint is an effort by our hospital to enhance communication and coordination of care with our patients. By creating a platform where you can access important health information related to your stay, our hope is that you will feel better prepared to take an active role in your care.

If you agree to participate and provide your email address to us, you will have access to important information about your recent hospital stay, including:

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Procedures you had during your stay

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A list of current and past medical issues

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Discharge instructions

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A list of current medicines and your medicine history

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Laboratory test results

This is the first phase of development for My HealthPoint, and new features will be added to enhance your experience in the future.

Setting Up Your Account

Once you’re discharged from our hospital, all you need to do is register with My HealthPoint. If you’ve provided your email address or cellphone number, you should receive a welcome message from our hospital in your inbox. Simply click the link in that email and follow the instructions on the screen.

At this time, My HealthPoint registration is available only to people 18 years and older who were inpatients in our hospital. We hope to make it available to outpatients in the near future.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact Rhonda Dailey, Clinical Informatics Director, at 335.6537.

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Choose a Support Person A trusted friend or family member can be a big help during your hospital stay. Select one key person to be your health care advocate.

If you become stressed or your ability to communicate changes, this person can stand in for you— and stand up for your care.

A support person can: n

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ask questions you might not think of and write down information double-check your medicines and treatments atch for signs your w condition is getting worse and ask for help

Don’t forget to tell the staff who you’ve picked to be your support person.

Check IDs

While you are here, many people will care for you (doctors, nurses, aides), and these same people will care for many patients. To prevent errors in your care: Ask to see the ID of everyone who comes into your room, so you know the name and job of the person caring for you. If you do not see an ID badge, contact your nurse immediately.

Speak up if hospital staff does not check your ID. Any time staff enters your room to give you medicine, transport you, or perform procedures or treatments, state your name and birth date.

Always double-check your name with staff to avoid errors.

This may seem repetitive at times, but it helps ensure you receive the correct care.

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TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued

Pay Attention to Your Care n

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Tell your nurse or member of your care team if something doesn’t seem right.

You Are Key You are the most important member of your health care team.

Know what time you normally get medicine, and tell your nurse if you don’t get it.

Understand your treatment Ask questions

equest drawings or R illustrations to help you learn about your condition.

Speak up about pain

ead and understand all R medical forms before signing. Ask if you need information explained.

Know your medicines Plan early for a successful discharge

I f your treatment involves medical equipment, practice using it with your nurse before you leave the hospital.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion. The more information you have, the better you will feel about making decisions.

Talk to your doctor and family about whether you want life-saving actions taken.

And Remember, Take Charge of Your Communication Ask About Jargon: If you hear a medical term you don’t understand, ask what it means.

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Teach Back: After you get instructions or an explanation, repeat back what you thought you heard so you can double-check that you understood.

Take Notes: Write down any key facts your doctor tells you so you won’t forget.

5 Ways to Fight Infections The hospital is a place you come to get well, but you also can come in contact with germs that can make you feel worse. Reduce your chances of infection by taking these safety precautions.

1 Clean your hands. n after touching hospital objects or surfaces

n before eating

n after using the restroom

n when entering and exiting your room Ask doctors and hospital staff 2 members to clean their hands.

This should be standard practice, but don’t be afraid to remind them if they forget. Ask visitors to clean their hands too!

CLEANING TIP: Use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer under your nails, in between your fingers, and on the palms and backs of your hands. Rub for 15 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday”).

3 Cover if you are sick. If you get an infection, limit the spread of germs by sneezing and coughing into tissues you promptly throw away, and avoid touching other people. Ask the staff if there is anything else you should do—like wear a surgical mask—to prevent the spread of germs.

4 Keep an eye on bandages or dressings. If a dressing on a wound or IV becomes loose or wet, let your nurse know. Also if you have a catheter or drainage tube, tell your nurse if it becomes loose or dislodged. Ask each day if it’s time to remove your catheter or IV. 5 Keep your vaccinations up-to-date. Make sure you are as protected as possible from the spread of infection. Check with hospital staff about whether it’s safe for you to receive any vaccines you might need.

Tell friends and family not to visit if they are sick.

And make sure all your guests wash their hands when they enter and exit your room.

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TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CARE continued

Don’t Ignore Pain No one knows how much pain you are in but you. Tell your doctor or nurse when pain strikes or if it comes back again after it goes away.

Talk about your pain level throughout the course of your stay.

Ask yourself, then share with your nurse. n

Where does it hurt?

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When does it hurt?

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Does it keep you from doing things—like sleeping, dressing, eating?

Which words describe your pain? q aching

q cramping

q pressure

q shooting

q bloating

q cutting

q pulling

q soreness

q burning

q dull

q radiating

q stabbing

q comes and goes

q numbing

q searing

q throbbing

q constant

q pressing

q sharp

q tightness

How bad is it on this pain scale?

Wong-Baker FACES® Pain Rating Scale

0 No Hurt

2 Hurts Little Bit

4 Hurts Little More

6 Hurts Even More

8 Hurts Whole Lot

10 Hurts Worst

Copyright 1983, Wong-Baker FACES® Foundation, www.WongBakerFACES.org. Used with permission.

You’re the Expert on Your Pain Starting to get uncomfortable? Pain medicine not working? Speak up. Often, repositioning or a cool/warm compress can help alleviate minor pain. Don’t try to ignore painful symptoms. Talk to your doctor or nurse about ways to manage your pain. They can provide suggestions to help make you more comfortable as you heal.

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Prevent Falls While you are here, you may feel dizzy or weak. Illness, procedures, medicines or even just lying down for too long can make you less steady on your feet. To keep yourself safe: n Use the nurse call button for help getting out of bed. n

sk for help going to the bathroom or walking A around. (And use hospital handrails when they’re available.)

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Wear nonslip socks or footwear.

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Keep often-used items within easy reach (glasses, remote, tissues, etc.).

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ake sure your wheelchair is locked when you get in or out of it. Never M step on the footrest.

Patients of all ages are at risk for falls. It’s better to be extra careful than risk another medical problem.

Prepare for Surgery Before your procedure, make sure you and your surgical staff confirm: n n

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your name the type of surgery you are having t he body part to be operated on—In fact, hospital staff will mark the correct spot on your body. Make sure you or your support person checks that it’s correct.

Take simple steps like these to help prevent medical mistakes.

Ask your surgeon to take a “time out” to check: you’re the right person, getting the right surgery, on the right body part.

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Medicines & Side Effects This section contains side effects of medicines commonly prescribed in the hospital. Ask your nurse if you have questions about these medicines or if you would like to speak with a pharmacist.

REASON FOR MEDICINE Pain Relief

MEDICINE NAMES: GENERIC (BRAND) ❑ Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) ❑ FentaNYL (Duragesic® Patch) ❑ Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Vicodin®, Lortab®, Norco®) ❑ HYDROmorphone (Dilaudid®) ❑ Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) ❑ Ketorolac (Toradol®) ❑ Morphine ❑ Oxycodone ❑ Oxycodone/Acetaminophen (Percocet®) ❑ Tramadol (Ultram®) ❑ Other:______________________________

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS Dizziness/ Drowsiness Constipation Nausea/Vomiting Rash Confusion Itchiness

Antibiotics ❑ Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (Augmentin®) for Infections ❑ Azithromycin (Zithromax®) ❑ Cefazolin (Ancef®) ❑ Ceftriaxone (Rocephin®) ❑ Clindamycin (Cleocin®) ❑ Levofloxacin (Levaquin®) ❑ Metronidazole (Flagyl®) ❑ Piperacillin/Tazobactam (Zosyn®) ❑ Vancomycin (Vancocin®) ❑ Other:______________________________

Stomach upset Diarrhea Rash/Flushing Headache

Blood Sugar Control

❑ Insulin aspart, short acting (NovoLOG®) ❑ Insulin lispro, short acting (HumaLOG®) ❑ Insulin glargine, long acting (Lantus®) ❑ Insulin detemir, long acting (Levemir®) ❑ Insulin, regular (NovoLIN R®, HumuLIN R®) ❑ Other:______________________________

Headache Irritation at injection site Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

Cholesterol Lowering

Headache ❑ Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) Muscle pain ❑ Simvastatin (Zocor®) Stomach upset ❑ Lovastatin (Mevacor®) ❑ Other:______________________________

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REASON FOR MEDICINE NAMES: GENERIC (BRAND) MEDICINE

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

Blood Thinner (to Stop or Break Down Blood Clots)

Increased risk of ❑ Enoxaparin (Lovenox®) ❑ Heparin bleeding ❑ Warfarin (Coumadin®) ❑ Other: _____________________________

Blood Thinner (to Stop Blood Clots from Forming)

❑ Aspirin Stomach upset ❑ Clopidogrel (Plavix®) Increased risk of ❑ Other: _____________________________ bleeding

Lowers Blood Calcium Channel Blockers: Pressure & ❑ Diltiazem (Cardizem [CD]®, Cartia XT®, Heart Rate Tiazac®) Beta Blockers: ❑ Atenolol (Tenormin®) ❑ Carvedilol (Coreg®) ❑ Metoprolol (Lopressor®, Toprol XL®) ❑ Other:_____________________________

Dizziness/ Drowsiness Headache

Lowers Blood ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Pressure Blockers (ARBs) ❑ Benazapril, Captopril, Enalapril, Lisinopril, Quinapril, Ramipril ❑ Irbesartan (Avapro®), Losartan (Cozaar®), ❑ Valsartan (Diovan®) ❑ Other:_____________________________

Dizziness Cough

Diuretic (Water Pill)

❑ Bumetanide (Bumex®) ❑ Furosemide (Lasix®) ❑ Other:_____________________________

Dehydration Headache

Heart Rhythm Problems

❑ Amiodarone (Pacerone®) ❑ Digoxin (Digitek®) ❑ Other:_____________________________

Dizziness Headache

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Medicines & Side Effects continued REASON FOR MEDICINE Heartburn or Reflux

MEDICINE NAMES: GENERIC (BRAND)

MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

Diarrhea ❑ Famotidine (Pepcid®) ❑ Omeprazole (Prilosec®) Headache ❑ Pantoprazole (Protonix®) ❑ Other: ______________________________

Helps with ❑ Celecoxib (Celebrex®) Sleeplessness Inflammation ❑ Dexamethasone (Decadron®) Stomach upset ❑ Hydrocortisone (Cortef®, Solu-Cortef®) ❑ Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) ❑ Ketorolac (Toradol®) ❑ Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol®) ❑ Prednisone ❑ Other: ______________________________ Nausea or Vomiting

❑ Ondansetron (Zofran®) ❑ Promethazine (Phenergan®) ❑ Scopolamine patch (Transderm Scop®) ❑ Other: ______________________________

Constipation Drowsiness Dry mouth Headache

Calms Nerves or Makes You Sleepy

❑ Alprazolam (Xanax®) ❑ Diazepam (Valium®) ❑ Lorazepam (Ativan®) ❑ Midazolam (Versed®) ❑ Temazepam (Restoril®) ❑ Zolpidem (Ambien®) ❑ Other: ______________________________

Confusion Dizziness/ Drowsiness Headache

Inhaled Treatments (to Help with Breathing)

❑ Albuterol (Proair®, Ventolin®, Proventil®) ❑ Ipratropium (Atrovent®) ❑ Budesonide, beclomethasone (Pulmicort®, QVAR®) ❑ Tiotropium (Spiriva®) ❑ Other: ______________________________

Cough Dry mouth Feeling anxious Headache Throat irritation Upset stomach

____________

_____________________________________

________________

____________

_____________________________________

________________

____________

_____________________________________

________________

____________

_____________________________________

________________

____________

_____________________________________

________________

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Manage Your Meds Whether you take one medicine or five, it’s important to know what you are taking and why. Ask your doctor these questions about any new (and current) medicines you take: n

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What is the name of my medicine?

Generic name? hy am I taking it? How will it help?

W When will it start working?

What dose? How often? How long? hat is the best time (morning, night, W etc.) or way to take it (with food, with water)?

What are possible side effects? What do I do if they happen?

Prevent Medicine Errors Be sure your doctors and nurses know: n All the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements you take. n Any allergies you have to medicines, anesthesia, foods, latex, etc. n That your name matches the name on the medicine (use your ID bracelet to doublecheck).

Are there any foods, drinks or activities to avoid?

What do I do if I miss a dose?

Remember, Take Charge of Your Medicines

Think you’re due for your next dose? Wondering if this new medicine can replace one you already take? Want to make sure all your medicines and supplements are safe to take together? Don’t be afraid to ask.

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Prevent Hospital Infections Take Steps to Reduce Your Risk During Your Stay According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1 in 25 patients gets a health care-associated infection while staying at the hospital. Often, these happen because hospital procedures and equipment can expose internal parts of your body to germs. The chart below lists common infections and steps you can take to prevent them.

TYPE

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HOW IT STARTS

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Germs enter your urinary tract while using a tube to drain urine

Surgical Site Infections

Germs affect the site of your surgery—either on your skin or internally

Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections

Germs enter your bloodstream through a large tube that’s inserted in a vein near your neck, chest or groin

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Germs enter your lungs through a tube in your mouth, nose or neck used to help you breathe

Superbugs

A superbug is a germ that causes a bacterial, viral or fungal infection, but does not respond to the usual treatments.

This means these bugs make you sicker longer and increase your risk of more serious complications. Common strains include MRSA, E. coli and VRE. Superbugs spread from person to person through touching germy hands or objects. Protect yourself by taking the steps below.

And remember, wash your hands and ask everyone you see during your stay to wash his or her hands too.

SYMPTOMS n n n n

n n n

n

n

n n

fever burning pain bloody or frequent urination redness pain drainage of cloudy fluid fever r ed skin and soreness at site fever chills

PREVENTION n n

n n

n

n n n

n n

n

n

n

n n n n n

cough mucus fever chills shortness of breath

n n n

n

clean hands before touching area keep urine bag below level of bladder to prevent backflow don’t tug, pull, twist or bend the tube secure catheter to your leg and ask every day if it’s still needed do not shave surgery site (irritation increases risk of infection) clean hands before touching area don’t let visitors touch or dress your wound ask your nurse to show you how to care for your wound c lean hands before touching area make sure staff wears gloves, gown, cap, mask and sterile drape when handling tube speak up if your bandage comes off, looks wet or dirty, or if your skin looks sore avoid touching tube or letting visitors touch tube ask that tube be removed as soon as possible c lean hands before touching area ask if it’s safe to raise the head of your bed know how often the inside of your mouth needs to be cleaned ask that tube be removed as soon as possible

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Using Antibiotics Safely Take Steps to Improve How These Medicines Work Antibiotics can be life-saving medicines, but using them incorrectly can harm your body. Taking antibiotics when you shouldn’t can lead to antibiotic resistance. This means the medicines that used to work to fight off harmful bugs won’t work anymore.

While you’re in the hospital, your doctor will review your medicines, including antibiotics, regularly. He or she may change the dose or stop giving you the antibiotic if you don’t need it anymore. If you’re taking antibiotics outside the hospital, it’s important to finish them unless your doctor gives you different instructions. This helps to make sure the antibiotics will help you if you ever need them again.

LEARN MORE

When your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, it’s important to make sure you’re taking the right dose for the right amount of time. Visit cdc. gov/getsmart for tips on using antibiotics after discharge.

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You also can improve antibiotic use after you’re discharged. Start by taking these steps: n K eep up with vaccines. Vaccines help prevent diseases from spreading and infections that may require antibiotics. n Wash

your hands. This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs that cause infections and keep yourself and your family healthy. n Ask

about symptom relief. Talk to your doctor about how to relieve symptoms of your illness so you can feel better. n Only take antibiotics for infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics don’t help illnesses caused by viruses, like colds and the flu. n A sk about watchful waiting. Some bacterial infections can get better without antibiotics. Your doctor may recommend waiting a few days to see if you get better before giving you antibiotics. n Take

antibiotics as prescribed. Even if you feel better, do not skip doses or stop taking an antibiotic early without approval from your doctor. n Throw leftover antibiotics away. Ask your pharmacist about the best way to get rid of leftover antibiotics.

Rights Using Antibiotics & Responsibilities Safely You Have the Right to the Best Care We consider you as a partner in your hospital care. When you are a well-informed participant in treatment decisions and communicate openly with your doctor and other health professionals, they help make your care as effective as possible. This hospital encourages respect for the personal preferences and values of each individual.

Patient Rights

he right to impartial access to T treatment that is available or medically indicated, regardless of race, creed, sex, national origin or source of payment. he right to considerate and T respectful care and the right to give us feedback about the care.

The right to have your care provided in a safe, effective manner and in a safe environment. he right to wear appropriate T personal clothing and religious or symbolic items, as long as they do not interfere with diagnostic procedures or treatments.

patients have the right to be free from restraints except in the case of an emergency, when there is an imminent risk of an individual physically harming themselves or others and less restrictive interventions would be ineffective. he right to have an advance T directive (such as a living will or durable power or attorney for health care). he right to obtain complete T current information concerning diagnosis, treatment and

Concerns?

If you have concerns about the care you or your loved one is receiving, please speak with your doctor or nursing supervisor. If you feel that your issue isn’t resolved, contact our patient advocate at 335.6595 in Lander or 857.3535 in Riverton.

he right to receive care in a safe T setting, and to be free from all forms of abuse or harassment. he right to be free from T restraints of any form that are not medically necessary.

For behavior management, all

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Rights & Responsibilities continued prognosis in terms the patient can reasonably be expected to understand. he right to know the identity T and professional status of individuals providing service and to know which physician is primarily responsible for the care. he right to receive information T necessary to give informed consent prior to the start of any procedure and/or treatment. he right to a second opinion or T consult with a medical specialist at your own request and expense. he right to refuse treatment to T the extent permitted by law and to be informed of the medical consequences of the action. he right to every consideration T of privacy concerning your medical care program.

he right to be informed of T any continuing health care requirements following discharge. he right to information T regarding “Patient’s Bill of Rights” policy upon request. The patient is entitled to information about the hospital’s mechanism that can assist in the prompt resolution of complaints and answer questions. This can be accomplished by contacting one of the following: Administration Lander: 335.6498 Riverton: 857.3401 The Joint Commission 1.800.994.6610 JointCommission.org KEPRO for Medicare Beneficiary 1.844.430.9504 keproqio.com

he right to confidentiality T of clinical records, except in such cases as suspected abuse or public health hazards and when reporting is permitted or required by law.

he right, when medically T permissible, to be transferred to another facility.

he right to review your T medical records and to have the information explained, except when restricted by law.

he right to expect reasonable T continuity of care when appropriate and to be informed of realistic care alternatives, including protective services when hospital care is no longer appropriate.

he right to expect that, within T its capacity, the hospital must make a reasonable response to the request of a patient for services.

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he right to access your clinical T records within a reasonable time frame.

he right to access people T outside the hospital.

he right to appropriate T assessment and management of pain. he right to examine and receive T an explanation of your bill. he dying patient has the right T to comfort and dignity treatment of primary and secondary symptoms.

Patient Responsibilities

ou are responsible for providing Y information about your health, including past illness, hospital stay, medicine and other matters relating to your health. ou are responsible for Y following the treatment plan recommended by doctor and if you anticipate problems in following the prescribed treatment.

and for assisting in the control of noise and number of visitors. ou are responsible for providing Y information for insurance and for working with the hospital to arrange payment, when needed. ou are responsible for ensuring Y that the health care institution has a copy of your written advance directive. ou have the responsibility, when Y able, for maintaining personal hygiene and grooming during your hospital stay.

Nondiscrimination Statement

This facility and its affiliates comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

ou are responsible for the Y consequences of your actions it you refuse treatment or do not follow the practitioner’s instructions.

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.

Llame al 1.307.332.4420 (Lander)/1.307.856.4161 (Riverton).

ou are responsible for following Y hospital rules and regulations affecting care, conduct and safety.

注意:如果您使用繁體中文， 您可以免費獲得語言援助服 務。請致電 1.307.332.4420 (Lander)/1.307.856.4161 (Riverton) 。

ou are responsible for being Y considerate of other patients and hospital property and personnel,

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Your Privacy Matters

Rights & Responsibilities continued

Privacy and Health Information You have privacy rights under a federal law that protect your health information. This law sets rules and limits on who can look at and receive your health information. These rights are important for you to know.

Who must follow this law?

Most doctors, nurses, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes and many other health care providers and their vendors

Health insurance companies, HMOs and most employer group health plans

Certain government programs that pay for health care, such as Medicare and Medicaid

Right to Complain If you believe your rights are being denied or your health information isn’t being protected, you can file a complaint with your provider, health insurer or the U.S. government at ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/ smartscreen/main.jsf.

What information is protected?

Information your doctors, nurses and other health care providers put in your medical records

onversations your doctor has with nurses and others regarding C your care or treatment Information about you in your health insurer’s computer system Billing information about you at your clinic ost other health information about you held by those who must M follow this law

What rights do you have over your health information?

Providers and health insurers must comply with your right to:

sk to see and get a copy of your A health records

ave corrections added to your H health information, as long as your doctor agrees

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Receive a notice that tells you how your health information may be used and shared

ecide if you want to give your permission before your health D information can be used or shared for certain purposes, such as for marketing

et a report on when and why your health information was shared G for certain purposes File a complaint

What are the rules and limits on who can see and receive your health information?

To make sure that your health information is protected in a way that doesn’t interfere with your health care, your information can be used and shared: For your treatment and care coordination

To pay doctors and hospitals for your health care and help run their businesses With your family, relatives, friends or others you identify who are involved with your health care or your health care bills, unless you object

Call 335.6331 in Lander or 857.3466 in Riverton for copies of medical records.

To make sure doctors give good care and nursing homes are clean and safe To protect the public’s health, such as by reporting when the flu is in your area To make required reports to the police, such as reporting gunshot wounds

Without your written permission, your provider cannot: Give your health information to your employer

Use or share your health information for marketing or advertising purposes Share private notes about your mental health counseling sessions

Another law provides additional privacy protections to patients of alcohol and drug treatment programs.

For more information, visit: samhsa.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights

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Advance Directives

Your Privacy Matters continued

A Simple and Smart Way to Take Charge of Your Care One of the most important decisions you can make about your care is to fill out advance directives in case you can no longer speak for yourself. Advance directives are documents that let others know your wishes about the type of care you want. And they will only be used if you become unconscious or too ill to communicate yourself.

Different states have different laws about advance directives. Check with your Admissions department or nurse if you have any questions. Directives can include:

Living Will FILL OUT YOUR FORMS

Make sure you submit advance directives each time you go to the hospital so your most current information and wishes are on file. You do not need a lawyer to fill these out. For more information and to obtain the forms you need, call 335.6418 in Lander or 857.5242 in Riverton.

This set of instructions explains the type of lifeprolonging medical care you wish to accept or refuse. It can include your wishes about the use of resuscitation (CPR) if your heart stops, a ventilator if you stop breathing, or feeding tubes or IVs if you cannot eat or drink.

Durable Power of Attorney

For health care: This is a legal document that names your health care proxy—someone who can make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to do so.

An official health care proxy can represent your wishes on emergency care Choose Your Care but also on other medical issues like potential treatment Fill out advance options, blood transfusions, directives so your wishes are met and kidney dialysis, etc. Choose your loved ones are someone you trust, discuss sure of what you your medical wishes and want. make sure the person agrees to represent you in this role.

For finances: You also have the right to appoint someone or the same person to help manage your finances if you cannot.

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Before You Leave the Hospital

A successful recovery after your stay starts with a solid plan before you go.

Plan Early to reduce your chances of being readmitted and Caregivers Need Care Too

increase your chances for a healthy recovery. Take steps as soon as possible during your stay to plan for a successful transition from the hospital.

To begin, ask to speak with your discharge planner, and review the following: n your discharge summary and discharge plan n your complete medicine list and instructions n your upcoming appointments n what to do if you don’t feel well

A Reason To Plan Early If you need a rehabilitation facility, nursing home, skilled care or other service after your stay, you’ll need time to find and weigh your options. For help comparing services in your local area, go to: n medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare n medicare.gov/homehealthcompare n qualitycheck.org

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Before You Leave continued

Checklist for Discharge Make sure you have the following information before you leave the hospital.

p Discharge summary.

This includes why you were in the hospital, who cared for you, your procedures and medicines.

Not Ready To Leave?

You have the right to appeal your discharge if you don’t agree with the decision that you are ready to leave the hospital. Speak with your discharge planner or physician and share your concerns. You also may need to reach out to Medicare, Medicaid or your insurance company.

p Medicine list. This includes all your new and former prescriptions, overthe-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. Ask if there are any medicines you can stop taking or that are not good to take together. Also make sure you know why, how and when to take each one. p Prescriptions. Check that your pharmacy has your new prescriptions and you have a plan to get them filled. p Follow-up care instructions. Beyond medicine, this can include: n warning signs to watch for n foods or activities to avoid

n daily living adjustments n tests or appointments

(like how to get into bed) n how to care for incisions or

n who to call with questions use equipment p After-hospital services. Know how much support you’ll need in these areas: n Personal care: bathing, eating, dressing, toileting

n Home care: cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping

n Health care: taking your medicines, doctor’s appointments,

physical therapy, wound care, injections, medical equipment p Local resources. Ask your discharge planner for help finding local after-care services or other support groups.

Try the teach-back method. Repeat back what you hear the discharge planner say to make sure you understand the details correctly.

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Top 10 Questions to Ask Before You Go Home 1. What number can I call 24 hours a day if I have questions or concerns? Who is my contact?

2. Has my follow-up appointment been scheduled? With whom?

Do I have a ride there?

3. What are key warning signs I need to watch out for? Whom do I call if they happen?

4. What special equipment do I need? What special instructions do I need (wound care, injections, etc.)?

5. What kinds of activities and foods are limited? For how long?

6.

Do the doctors caring for me after my stay have access to my test results and medicines? Do I need follow-up tests?

7.

Are my new medicines safe to take with my other medicines, vitamins or supplements?

8. D o I know how and when to take my medicines and how I will get prescriptions filled?

9.

Who will provide the extra personal, home or health care services I may need?

10. Who can help me if I have concerns about medical costs?

Need Medical Equipment or Supplies?

If you need durable medical equipment (walker, wheelchair, hospital bed, oxygen, etc.), Medicare will only cover the cost if you use an approved supplier. To find one in your area, visit medicare.gov and select “Find suppliers of medical equipment and supplies� or call 1.800.MEDICARE (800.633.4227). You also may call case management at 335.6418 in Lander or 857.5242 in Riverton.

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Before You Leave continued

After-Hospital Care Quick Guide to Recovery Options for After Your Stay After-hospital care that fits your needs is important. Make sure you understand what your doctor recommends for treatment after your hospital stay. After-care options include:

Home Health Care— Care provided by professionals in your home to help maintain or restore health. Can include: home care services such as housekeeping and meal preparation; personal care services such as bathing, dressing or eating; and health care services such as physical therapy or skilled nursing.

Independent Living—

Communities with individual, private apartments or homes.

Includes: meals, housekeeping, maintenance, social activities and possibly transportation. Health care services like skilled nursing are not usually standard.

Assisted Living— Individual units or apartments, usually in a longterm care facility. Includes: home and personal care services, as well as help managing health conditions and medicine routines—plus social activities and transportation.

Medical staff is on-site 24 hours.

Nursing Home— Long-term care facility for those who don’t need a hospital, but can’t be cared for at home. Includes: all daily living and personal care services, 24-hour skilled nursing care, plus social activities and events. Special units often available for people with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss.

Hospice— Care program that

provides support for terminally ill patients and families in hospitals, facilities or homes. Includes: 24-hour help with pain control, symptom management and emotional or spiritual support.

To get started evaluating or finding after-hospital care resources in your area, visit:

n

n

ldercare Locator E eldercare.gov ational Respite Network and N Resource Center archrespite.org

You can also talk to your case manager or social worker for help finding the right after-hospital care.

Contact your health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid to find out what care and services are covered for you, and to obtain help with costs.

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Understanding Your Bill After-Hospital Care Take Charge of Your Payments The hospital billing process may seem complicated, but you can feel more in control by knowing exactly what your bill covers. For example, if you stay overnight, you can expect to see charges for your room, meals, 24-hour nursing care and medicines. The bill also will show charges for any special services, such as X-rays and lab tests. You’ll receive bills for doctors, surgeons and specialists separately from the hospital.

Medicare

If you have Medicare, you’ll have to fill out an MSP (Medicare Secondary Payer) form. This ensures that Medicare only pays for services not covered by other insurance you may have. If you have secondary insurance, this usually covers Medicare deductibles.

If you don’t have secondary insurance, you need to pay these amounts yourself.

Also be sure to read your quarterly MSNs (Medicare Summary Notices) to review: the amount your doctor(s) charged the amount Medicare approved and paid

n the amount you owe

n your current deductible status If you have questions, call the customer service number listed on your statement.

n

n

Commonly Confused Terms

KEEPING TRACK

One of the key ways to feel wellinformed and less overwhelmed about the hospital billing process is to stay organized.

Keep all of your statements and bills together and review each one as it arrives.

• D eductible: The amount you owe each year before your insurance begins making payments.

• C o-payment: A flat fee you pay for a specific service, usually due at the time of service.

• C oinsurance: The portion of your medical expenses that you’re personally responsible for paying. For example, your insurance may cover 80 percent of a bill, while you have to pay the remaining 20 percent.

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Understanding Yourcontinued Bill continued Before You Leave Commercial Insurance Providers

If you use a commercial insurance provider, then the hospital forwards your claim based on the information you provide at registration. About a month after you leave the hospital, you’ll get an explanation of benefits (EOB) statement from your insurance provider. This isn’t a bill. EOBs show:

n

the amount billed by your doctor or hospital

n

how much of that cost is covered by your insurance

n

how much you owe

Review this and all other bill-related documents carefully. If you have questions, contact your doctor or the customer service number listed on the statement.

Self-Pay Patients and Payment Arrangements

If you’re planning to pay your bills without help from Medicare or a commercial insurance provider, then you’ll get bills directly from the hospital. When the first bill arrives, call the hospital’s financial services department to set up a payment plan.

Need Help?

If you don’t understand something on your bill, or if you’re having trouble paying your bills, let us know. A patient representative can work with you and guide you to services that can help.

Communicate with the financial services department as soon as possible.

If you don’t set up a payment plan, or if you stop making payments, then your account may be placed with a collection agency. The hospital wants to work with you, so reach out with any questions or concerns you have.

Understanding Coordination of Benefits (COB) COBs happen when you’re covered under two or more insurance companies. This may occur when spouses or partners are listed on each other’s insurance policies, or when both parents carry their children on their individual policies.

To prevent duplicate payments, COBs determine the primary payer. You choose who this is when you’re admitted. Insurance companies usually request completed COBs from you before paying a claim, so make sure you address these requests quickly.

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SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH

Heart Attack & Stroke Warning Signs Recognize the Signs and Get Help Quickly A heart attack or stroke is a medical emergency and every second counts. The faster you or a loved one recognizes the symptoms and gets help, the better your chances of surviving, with the least amount of damage to your heart or brain.

Once you’ve had an event, you’re at greater risk of having another in the future. But keep in mind that the symptoms of a second event can be different from what you experienced the first time.

Heart Attack Warning Signs

The main symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. It also can feel like pressure, fullness or squeezing in your chest. These feelings may start gradually and get worse, or they may come and go.

The symptoms of a heart attack can be different for women. Women also may have unusual heartburn, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, or they may feel tired or anxious weeks before a heart attack.

Stroke Warning Signs

Think F.A.S.T. when it comes to recognizing a stroke:

F ACE DROOPING: Does one side of your face droop or is it numb?

Try to smile.

A RM WEAKNESS: Is one arm weak or numb? Raise both arms.

Does one arm drift downward?

PEECH DIFFICULTY: Is your speech slurred? Are you unable to speak?

S Try to say a simple sentence like “The sky is blue.”

T IME TO CALL 911: If you notice any of these symptoms, even if they go away, call 911 right away.

Other sudden symptoms can include:

n

numbness or weakness in your leg

n

confusion or trouble understanding

n

trouble seeing in one or both eyes

n

trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance and coordination

n

severe headache with no known cause

37

SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH

Stop Smoking Reduce Your Chances of Returning to the Hospital No matter how long you’ve been a smoker, it’s never too late to quit this unhealthy habit. The benefits start right away and last a lifetime: n

n

n

n

n

n

0 MINUTES after quitting, 2 your heart rate and blood pressure drop.

2 WEEKS TO 3 MONTHS after quitting, your circulation improves and your lungs work better.

1 YEAR after quitting, your risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker’s.

5 YEARS after quitting, your risk of mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder cancers is cut in half.

10 YEARS after quitting, your risk of lung cancer is half that of a smoker’s.

Ready, Set, Quit!

Now that you’ve decided to quit, take it one day at a time. Remind yourself that you are in control— you can choose to smoke or not.

Make a commitment to yourself.

Write down why you want to quit and read it every day.

Be prepared to have nicotine cravings. They usually pass soon, so wait it out. The good news is that they become weaker and less frequent the longer you go without smoking. When a craving hits, take a walk, call a friend or do something else you enjoy.

15 YEARS after quitting, your risk of heart disease is the same as a nonsmoker’s.

3 Tips to Help You Quit 1. Fight the Urge Don’t let yourself think that you can have just one cigarette, but if you do slip, start again and make tomorrow your new first day to quit.

2. Get Moving Exercise is a good way to keep your mind off cigarettes. The longer you go without smoking, the better you can breathe and the easier it will be to exercise.

3. Keep Your Mouth Busy Try toothpicks, celery, sugarless gum or sugar-free lollipops.

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Adult Vaccines

Which Vaccines You Need to Protect Your Health Vaccines work with your immune system to help protect you from infections and disease. As you age, you’re more at risk of certain health conditions because your immune system isn’t as strong as it used to be. And if you do get sick, the symptoms can be more serious than when you were younger.

Three types of vaccines are especially important for older adults, including:

Influenza Vaccine— The flu

vaccine is recommended for all ages every year, and there are special vaccines for adults over age 65. You need the vaccine every year because the flu virus changes over time.

Zoster or Herpes Zoster Vaccine—This vaccine protects

against shingles. It’s one dose and is recommended for all adults age 60 and older. Shingles causes rash, blisters and severe pain.

Pneumococcal Vaccines—

Recommendations recently changed for pneumonia vaccines.

Even if you already received one vaccine, you may still need another.

Talk to your doctor about the vaccination schedule that’s right for you.

Pneumococcal conjugate or PCV13: You need one dose of this vaccine if you are age 65 or older and didn’t receive it at a younger age. It’s best to get this one before the PPSV23 vaccine (see below).

Wait at least 12 months if you receive the PPSV23 first.

Pneumococcal polysaccharide or PPSV23: If you are age 65 or older, you need one dose of this vaccine, ideally 12 months after receiving the PCV13 vaccine (see above).

Talk to Your Doctor Your doctor is your best source for information about vaccines. Which vaccines are right for you depend on your age, other health conditions you have (including pregnancy) and where you travel.

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Notes

Can We Help?

Our doctors and nurses respect and listen to every patient. If you don’t feel your concerns are being heard, speak up and we’ll make any changes needed to help improve your care.

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You Have A Choice

Your Dignity and Quality of Life is Our Number One Priority . Only locally owned and operated hospice and home care services . Hospice care in your home or ours . Non-medical home services and hospice care available 24/7

1240 College View Dr. Riverton, WY 82501

307-856-1206

We put the care in caregiving.

www.helpforhealthwy.org

Susan Pearson, MD Tabitha Shaw, MD Kathleen Petro, FNP-BC Steve Platz, PA-C 8195 Highway 789, Lander, WY 82520 (307) 332-1551 • www.landerfamilymedicine.com

• Primary Care • Chronic Disease Management • Well Child Exams • Pre-Operative Exams • Preventive Health Care • Sports and School Physicals • Well Woman Examinations

Wind RiveR Physical TheRaPy • ONE-ON-ONE CARE • Orthopedic Care • Sports Rehab • Post-Operative Rehab • Back and Neck Care • Women’s Health • Neurological Rehab • Balance and Vertigo • Gait Training • FREE INJURY SCREENS 150 Lincoln Street | Lander, WY 82520

307-335-5188 www.windrivertherapy.com

Mary Jo Jeffres, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist

Marc McLaughlin, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist

Sue Johnson, LSCW Clinical Social Worker

Rhonda Schieffer, LCSW Clinical Social Worker

Psychological Services

• Individual Therapy for Adults and Children • Family Therapy • EMDR/Trauma Therapy • Marriage Counseling • Psychological Evaluations • Education/Learning Disorders • Medicaid Waiver Evaluations • Bariatric/Medical Treatment • Fitness for Duty/Employment • Forensic/Disability/Social Security • Competency

Services via Tele-Health are available

103 N 5th East | Riverton, WY 82501 | (307) 463-0890 Email: drjeffres@aspenpsych.com | aspenpsychologywy.com