Patient Client Safety Brochure

Know what to do if there is a fire � If the fire alarm sounds, stay where you are and wait for instructions from staff. � If the fire is near you, close the door or leave the area. � Fire drills are regularly held throughout our buildings and staff receive fire training every year.

Help us maintain an abuse free environment � Abuse may be physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, financial, or involve neglect. � Providence Care is committed to an environment that is free of abuse. � All staff must report suspected abuse, which will be promptly investigated. � Patients/clients/residents, families, or visitors who suspect abuse should tell someone.

Know your right if something goes wrong � If something goes wrong, you have the right to know what happened and to get support. � If you wish, ask to speak with someone.

Let us know what you think � If you have a compliment, concern, or complaint you would like to share with us, tell someone or write it on a ‘We Care What You Think’ form. � ‘We Care What You Think’ forms and drop boxes are available throughout our buildings or on our Providence Care website. If you cannot find them, ask someone.

The leading regional provider of non-acute care in southeastern Ontario. Providence Care has three main sites in Kingston, Ontario and 18 community locations throughout southeastern Ontario.

Patient/Client/ Resident Safety

 Providence Manor  Mental Health Services  St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital

www.providencecare.ca

Vision Providence Care will lead the way in compassion and discovery.

Mission Trusting in Providence and strengthened by the spirit and tradition of our Founders, the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul, we enhance the quality of life by meeting the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of each person.

We work with our partners to innovate and excel in education and research.

We treat each person with respect, dignity and compassion.

Values Respect & Dignity  Compassion  Stewardship Rev. October 2011

At Providence Care safety is at the core of patient/client/resident care.

We believe everyone plays an important part.

This brochure will explain how you can help.

Patient/client/resident safety � At Providence Care staff take their role in patient/client/resident safety seriously. For example, they follow strict infection control practices to limit the spread of germs, use equipment safely, and strive to prevent injuries. � Patients/clients/residents and families also play a vital role in safety. Here is how you can help.

Make sure the people caring for you know about you � Do not assume that everyone has all the information they need. � Ask a family member or friend to be there with you if you need help getting things done, or to speak up for you if you can’t. � Keep and bring a list of ALL the medications you take, including prescription and ‘overthe-counter’ medications, and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs. � Tell the people caring for you about any allergies or bad reactions you have had to medications. This can help you avoid getting a medication that could harm you. � Make sure your identity is confirmed before you receive any care, services, or procedures, including taking medications.

You may be asked to say your full name and date of birth or show your hospital identification bracelet.

Speak up if you have questions or concerns � You have the right to question anyone who is caring for you. If something does not seem right, say something.

� Ask for information about your medications in a way you can understand:  What is this medication for?  How am I supposed to take it and for how long?  What are the likely side effects?

What do I do if they occur?

 Is this medication safe to take with other medications or dietary supplements I am taking?

 What foods, drinks, or activities should I avoid while taking this medication? � Before you take any medications while in the hospital look at your medication and if it doesn’t look right tell someone before you take it. � Ask for information about your diagnosis, treatments and medications. After it has been explained to you, ask for the information in writing to help you remember. � Read all forms and make sure you understand them before you sign anything. � Feel free to ask the people caring for you whether they have washed their hands, which can stop the spread of germs. � Before going home ask:  What do I need to do when I get home?  What medications should I take?  Should I keep taking all the medications I was taking at home?  What are my follow-up appointments?  Can you give me the information in writing to help me remember?

Do not smoke within our buildings � In compliance with the 2006 Smoke Free Ontario Act, and for everyone’s health and safety, no smoking is allowed within our buildings.

� Ask whether there is a designated outdoor smoking area for patients/clients/ residents.

Do not wear/bring strongly scented products/flowers into our buildings � Some patients/clients/residents, visitors, and staff are sensitive to strong scents, or experience severe allergic reactions to them.

Help us to limit the spread of germs � Wash your hands:  before and after using the washroom  after you blow your nose  before you eat  every time you leave your room � Use soap and water if your hands look dirty. If not, you can use a hand rub/ sanitizer. � Family and visitors must not visit if they have a fever or new cough, diarrhea, or vomiting. � During outbreaks of infection, be aware of the following:  Some patients/clients/residents will be isolated, away from others.  Some patients/clients/residents may have to stay on the affected floor.  Visiting may need to be limited. � Get vaccinated:  Influenza shots will be offered to patients/clients/residents every fall and are recommended for family/ friends who visit.  Patients/clients/residents over age 65 or with several health issues should also get a Pneumococcal vaccine.