When you come into hospital, there will be a variety of people who will be caring for you. Meeting so many people can be confusing, but everyone will be working together to provide you with the best care. You and your family can play an important part in making sure your stay in hospital is comfortable by asking questions and telling us how you are feeling about what is happening to you.
I really liked the way the staff showed you the test results every time before treatment. It gives you an opportunity to ask questions. My nurse put me at ease immediately… I felt like I was going to be ok.
Your nurse will begin your stay by collecting some information from you and/or your family/ carer in order to help plan the care you will need in hospital and later when you go home.
Some of the questions you will be asked are:
You will also be given an estimate of when you will be ready to go home. This will help you and your family/carer to prepare for your return home.
Each hospital ward has a Nurse or Midwife in Charge who is there to answer any questions you or your family/carer may have. Make certain that you know how to contact him or her.
During your stay, regular meetings with you about your care will involve the doctors, nurses and allied health staff (physiotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dieticians and pharmacists). At these meetings you will be involved in discussing your treatment with the staff. Remember, you are an important member of the team, so don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions.
Staff will make sure everything is ready for you when you go home. Final preparations may be made the evening before you leave so you can go home the next morning.
The type of information you will be given includes: