Five Patient Safety Tips When Visiting the Hospital

Whether you come to the hospital for a health screening, laboratory test or a consultation with your doctor, we want you to understand what we’re doing to help create a safe environment.

We follow safety precautions which align with the safety protocols provided by the CDC, CMS and State that help keep you, our staff and our communities safe. COVID SAFE standards are built upon deep clinical expertise and are a rigorous combination of infection prevention processes, training, testing, personal protective equipment and technology. These safety precautions include the following:

1. Distinct COVID SAFE and COVID CARE Zones – Separate areas with clear signage and protocols
2. Rigorous Physician and Staff Protocols – Daily screening, universal masking and access to PPE
3. Heightened Sanitization – Enhanced cleaning of surfaces and plenty of hand sanitization stations
4. Access to COVID-19 Testing – In-house, rapid testing for patients, physician and staff who require it
5. Precautions for Patients and Visitors – Provision of face masks, hand sanitizer and physical distancing
6. Enhanced Virtual Access – Virtual care, remote monitoring and connectivity with loved ones

Please note that our visitor policies can change based on conditions, and the most recent information is available here.

In addition to the efforts of the hospital to keep you safe, you can also help in preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Here are five patient safety tips you can follow to help keep you safe on your next hospital visit:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly.
   Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of bacteria and virus, which can prevent you from getting sick as well as getting others infected.


2. Wear a mask and practice social distancing at all times.
   To keep bacteria and viruses from spreading, always wear your mask and stay at least 6 feet or about two arm lengths away from people who are not from the same household.


3. Take medications as prescribed.
   Do not self-medicate. Only take medications, especially antibiotics, when your provider prescribed them to avoid complications. If prescribed, take them as instructed.


4. Get vaccinated.
   Make sure to get vaccinated against flu and other infections. These vaccines will help build your immune system and can help prevent unnecessary hospital visits.


5. Be honest with your healthcare provider.
   Tell your healthcare providers everything they need to know for them to diagnose and treat you accurately. Withholding needed information could lead to misdiagnosis.

Your safe care is our #1 priority.

Source:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention