The Risk of Being Hospitalized
Actions to take:
Wrong Medications:
Provide the hospital with a list of all your medications, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs.
Obtain your medication record at the hospital; notify them if you find errors. Take it with you when you are transferred.
If available, select a hospital with a computerized drug-ordering system, that matches drugs received with a bar code on an ID bracelet.
Whenever getting a new prescription, remind the doctor what other medications and supplements you take. Read the prescription — if you can’t read it, request a clarification.
Hospital Infections:
You should receive antibiotics before you go in for surgery. Check (or have a family member check) before you go in.
Catheters can cause various infections. Ask every doctor who examines you how long it will be needed.
Make sure that hospital workers wash hands and change gloves before touching you or inserting tubes.
Other steps you can take:
Take the time to understand the treatment you are going to get. Don't hesitate to ask questions before and during the treatment, especially if you think there are deviations from the original plan.
Get your test results, and seek help in interpreting them if necessary.