Important Tips to Make your Stay a Safe One 
Hospital staff works hard to ensure your stay is as safe as possible. Although unlikely, medical errors can occur. You and your family can help prevent an adverse event by practicing the following recommendations:

Ask Questions - If anything raises a concern, please speak up. Consider appointing a close family member or friend to be your advocate. Choose someone who will not hesitate to speak up on your behalf.

Be sure hospital staff check your hospital ID bracelet before giving you medication, a blood transfusion or drawing blood. Be sure your hospital ID bracelet is checked before any procedure is performed.

Don't be timid - Insist that your physician, nurse and all other caregivers wash their hands before they have contact with you.

Your Medications - Tell us all the medications you take, even over-the-counter drugs and herbal remedies.

Be sure to tell us your allergies and other reactions to medications. Ask your nurse about your medications if she brings you something that is unfamiliar.

Help prevent an accidental fall. Call the nurse to help you. Do not try to get out of bed yourself. Medications and the unfamiliar environment increase the risk of fall.

Do you have a concern? Ask to speak to the Nurse Manager. You may also call the Patient Relations Office at (203) 576-5614.