When a family member becomes ill and is hospitalized most people just assume that they will receive the care they need and be safe because of course the individuals that are responsibile for their care are professionals, some who have taken an oath to do so. The sad fact is often patients who are left in the care of these "professional" do not receive the care they should and are in no way safe.
With the staffing ratios (number of nurse and/or medical techinicians:per patient) at many facilities at the lowest acceptable rate it become difficult if impossible to ensure care and safety. Nurse and other staff are often pushed to the limit trying to just do the bare minimum and often things can/do happen as a result of this. Another factor that plays into this equation is that fact-some people who have opted to be givers of care do not have a compasionate attitude...they are harsh and insensitive and often lack any bedside manner which is important for a patient's care.
Recently having a family member as a patient in several hospitals, I have witness errors, potential hazards, and just down right poor care, and this was in spite of the fact that I visit everyday. I found myself in a constant battle with staff over things like dirty bathrooms, lack of lighting in the bathroom, staff not responding to the call light when they were right outside of the room in conversation with another staff about what the plans were for when they got off, etc. I write all this to say...you...the family and/or friends have to be on watch. Do not settle for less than acceptable care. Talk with the patient advocate to voice any concern you have and if you do not get satisfaction move to the CEO of the facility. They will tell you that you should speak with the nursing supervisor, their supervisor, etc...you know what I mean...the chain of command ladder...but do yourself a favor and go straight to the top. If things do not improve...remember you always have the power of the media..and I say use it.
I realize that medical care is a business but let that not be an excuse or cop out for what can cost a family or friend their life. Be the advocate for your loved ones when they are not in a position to do so...they need their energy to heal...so remember you are their voice.
Posted By: Belinda Anderson
Thursday, May 14th 2009 at 9:36AM
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