Patient Safety Information

The Miriam Hospital is committed to providing excellent patient care. One part of this commitment is patient safety. You can help us by being informed.

Be a well-informed patient.

• Keep track of your medical history, allergies, medications and any reactions or sensitivities to medications.
• Make sure you understand the care and treatment you are receiving. Ask questions until you feel comfortable that you understand your plan of care. If you think of questions when your nurse or doctor is not present, write them down so that you can ask them at a later time.
• Ask for information about your medications. Understand what your medications are, what they do and what side effects they might have.
• Make sure you understand your discharge instructions.

Be an active part of your health care team.

• Give accurate and complete information about your present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications and other matters related to your health.
• If you are having surgery, make sure that you and your surgeon agree and you are clear on exactly what will be done.
• Expect to be asked repeated questions about your name, date of birth and health information.

Be aware of what is happening.

• Make sure all staff check your ID bracelet before any procedure or test. Make sure our staff check your ID before giving you any medications.
• Be aware that hand hygiene is the best way to prevent the spread of germs.Whether it is old-fashioned hand washing with soap and water or use of alcohol gel for hand disinfection, you are welcome to remind staff to do so before examining you or giving you medications.
• Pay attention! If something does not seem right, call it to the attention of your nurses or doctors.
• Involve a friend or family member in your care. He or she can help you ask questions and understand care instructions.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the patient satisfaction hotline at 401-793-3625.