Pay attention to the health care you receive. If something does not seem right — such as the type of medication you are receiving — tell your doctor, nurse, or another healthcare professional.

• Expect healthcare workers to introduce themselves to you. Look for their identification badges.

• Notice whether your caregivers have washed their hands. Hand washing is the most important way to prevent the spread of infection.

Help to avoid medication errors:

• Know what time of day you usually get a medication. Tell your nurse or doctor if a regular medication is missed.
• Be able to identify your pills before swallowing them. Your regular medications may have a different color or shape in the hospital.

• Prevent falls.
  • Surgery and postoperative medicines can make even the best fit  feel weak and unsteady.
  • Some medicines and extra intravenous fluids may cause a need to empty your bladder frequently or difficulty in passing urine.  Do not be embarrassed to ask for help. Do it early, before it is urgent. Allow time for busy staff to get there.
  • Serious falls occur when patients try to be independent and do not ask for help.
• Know your treatment plans:
  • Ask questions to make sure you understand the next steps in your treatment.
• Encourage visitors to wash their hands before and after visits.
• Discourage visits from friends and family members who are not feeling well. Children are frequent cold carriers. Avoid children to visit hospital.