Hospital launches 'Just Ask Me' for patient safety

Last week, during Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 4 through 10, hospital staff at Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center wore "Just Ask Me" buttons to encourage patients to ask about steps they can take to ensure their safety.

"We cannot overlook the importance of patients taking an active role in their care. In fact, research shows that patients who take part in decisions about their healthcare are more likely to have better outcomes," said Cindy DeMotte, vice president of Quality Management at Los Robles Hospital.

"Our new campaign is to promote dialogue with our patients and their families regarding all the steps we take on a daily basis to ensure their safety."

The hospital is using an Electronic Medication Administration Record, known as eMAR, which is used to match barcoded medications to the patient's bar-coded identification armband to reduce medication errors.

Some points for patients to consider include:

+Provide complete medical history and a list of medications/ supplements taken

+Ask questions of the doctor, nurse and other healthcare providers

+Tell the nurse if the armband is missing or is incorrect

+Ensure that all staff confirm your identity by checking your armband and asking your name before giving any medications or treatments

+Notice whether caregivers have washed their hands and/or used alcohol foam

+Thoroughly read all medical forms and information provided

+Pay attention to the healthcare received. If something doesn't seem right, tell the doctor, nurse or other healthcare provider.