Table of Contents
Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: You Could Save a Life
Chapter 2: Getting Started: The Basics of Being an Advocate
Chapter 3: The Primary Nurse
Chapter 4: The Doctors
Chapter 5: The Importance of Research
Chapter 6: Preventing Medical Error
Chapter 7: Preventing Infectious Diseases in the Hospital
Chapter 8: Preventing Fatal Falls
Chapter 9: Language Barriers and Cultural Issues
Chapter 10: Special Attention Required on Routine Medical and Surgical Floors
Chapter 11: If You Live Out of Town
Chapter 12: How to Support and Comfort Your Loved One
Chapter 13: Hospital Social Workers
Chapter 14: Considering a Different Hospital
Chapter 15: HIPAA Laws, Advance Directives, Power of Attorney, Living Will, DNR
Chapter 16: How to Take Care of You
Chapter 17: Discharge Planning and Aftercare
Quick Reference Guide
Patient’s Personal Information
Patient’s Medical Information
Sample Questions for Doctors and Primary Nurses
Physicians/Nurses/Specialists
Family Advocate Team
Medication Information
Oxygen, TPN, Monitors, IV
Lab and Test Results
Procedures and Treatments
Errors and/or Problems
Social Worker Information
What I Can Do to Help with Patient Care
Assisting the Patient
Fall Prevention Information
Patient’s Dietary Restrictions
Cultural Preferences and Issues
Patient’s New Hospital Floor
Research on Patient’s Illness or Injury
If You Live Out of Town
Considering a Different Hospital
Health Directive Documents
Taking Care of You
Discharge and Post-Discharge Care
Daily Progress Notes
Hospital Staff Glossary
Medical Terms Glossary
References
Appendix: Useful Websites for Further Research
Index
