I am currently with a loved one in an out of state Hospital and on every wall is a sign that says SPEAK UP.
The poster then discusses patient’s need to speak up and how that can prevent injury and mistakes.
I agree. While it doesn’t take away the duty of the healthcare provider to:
- properly staff their facilities
- properly train their staff
- make sure equipment is in working order
- make sure staff communicates directly with patients
- properly assess patients
- properly treat patients
Patients should speak up. Patients should also, be organized and if possible, have an advocate with them as much as possible who can take notes, ask good questions and stay organized.
Why? Because you know your health better than anyone.
You know your body better than anyone.
You know when something is wrong before anyone else.
So do SPEAK UP — and maybe we can stop negligence before it hurts someone.