- Ask doctors or nurses to wash their hands before they treat you.
- Before an operation, have the surgical site marked with permanent ink. Confirm that a nurse or doctor marks the correct site.
- Keep copies of your medical records and charts - with written or typed notes from your doctor - not just your bills.
- Make sure your doctor or nurse confirms your identity - by asking your name or checking your wristband - before giving you medicine or treatment.
- Read the label on your medication before taking it or allowing someone to hook up intravenous fluids. Confirm that your name is on your medication. Check the dose and name of drug. Many medication names sound alike.
- To prevent harmful interactions, tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take - including over-the-counter medicine, vitamins, herbs, supplements, homeopathic remedies, alcohol or recreational drugs.
- Tell your doctor about any allergies or negative reactions that you have had to medicines in the past.
- Make sure you can read the handwriting on a prescription. If not, ask to have it printed or typed.
Source: Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
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