Responsibilities as a Patient or Attendant in a Hospital

 

As a patient or someone accompanying a patient, you play an important role in ensuring a smooth healthcare experience. Here are your responsibilities:

1. Appointment Management:
• Keep your appointments and arrive on time. If you can’t make it, notify your doctor or the hospital promptly.
2. Information Sharing:
• Provide accurate details, including your full name, contact information, next-of-kin details, medical history, and medication information.
• Actively participate in your treatment plan and update your healthcare team on your progress.
3. Valuables and Behavior:
• Leave valuables at home and bring only essential items.
• Treat hospital staff, fellow patients, and visitors with courtesy and respect.
• Follow hospital rules, safety regulations, and the ‘No Smoking’ policy.
• Understand instructions before signing consent forms.

Your Rights as a Patient or Attendant:

1. Respect and Dignity:
• You have the right to be treated respectfully, compassionately, and with dignity, regardless of your background or identity.
• You’ll be addressed by your proper name, and healthcare team members will introduce themselves.
2. Privacy and Confidentiality:
• Expect privacy during discussions, examinations, and treatments.
• Your medical information will be kept confidential.
3. Clear Communication:
• Your doctor will explain your diagnosis, treatment options, risks, and expected outcomes in understandable terms.
4. Protection and Safety:
• You’ll be protected from physical abuse and neglect.
• The hospital will provide information about treatment costs and payment policies.
5. Access to Records:
• You can request a copy of your medical records following the hospital’s protocol.

Visiting Guidelines for Intensive Care Units (ICUs):

• ICUs have restricted access:
• Visitors must follow protocols, wear protective gear (gown, mask, gloves, shoe covers), and use hand sanitizer.
• Only one attendant at a time is allowed for a maximum of 10 minutes.
• Wait your turn to enter these special zones.

Visitor Expectations:

• Health: Visitors should not visit if they are sick.
• Safety: Comply with safety procedures and wear identification cards.
• Emergency Situations: Leave during disasters or fire alarms; patients will be rescued as per evacuation plans.
• Respect: Behave respectfully toward staff and other patients.

Unacceptable Behavior Includes:

• Interfering with a patient’s care plan.
• Harassment (including inappropriate calls to staff).
• Using threatening language or violence.
• Arriving under the influence.
• Damaging hospital property, theft, or possession of weapons.
• Disturbing other patients.

Remember, a positive and respectful approach benefits everyone involved in your healthcare journey!