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Communication Tips
Preparation Is the Key to Communication
As a conscientious caregiver, you want to be as prepared as possible when the inevitable questions arise about the patient and the procedure.
- Write down your questions. Be as clear and specific as possible.
- Make a written list of medications the patient is taking and of the patient’s medical history, including surgeries and treatments not related to this surgery.
- Be honest and complete in talking with the doctor. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about issues that you usually keep private.
- Ask for clarification. If you don’t understand, don't be embarrassed to ask for further explanation, especially of medical terms.
- Keep the doctor informed. Contact the surgeon if there are any complications from surgery, such as fever, redness, drainage or bleeding around the wound site.
Some doctors set aside specific hours to take and return calls. Others ask that non-emergency calls be directed to a particular member of the healthcare team. If the printed information from the surgeon does not tell you how and when you can contact the surgeon or the healthcare team, contact the doctor and ask the following questions:
- What days is the office open, and for what hours?
- How are medical emergencies handled?
- Whom do I call after hours?
- When is the best time to reach the doctor?
- Who answers questions if the doctor is not available?
Some Communication Is Off-Limits for a Patient’s Protection
The law protects the privacy of every patient’s medical record, and healthcare providers work hard to maintain the confidentiality of the patient’s record. Check with the healthcare team well before the surgery to ensure that patient privacy guidelines are met, and to be sure that you comply with applicable regulations and policies.
Some doctors ask patients to designate someone as their caregiver, and hospitals also ask patients to identify a caregiver who can be given information by phone. While general information is available to a caregiver, unless otherwise directed by the patient, only the patient can receive test result information. Doctors will not leave test results on voice mail or answering machines either.
Next: Strength for Caring Network
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