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Your Safety Is Our First Concern

At Saint Alphonsus, providing high-quality care and patient safety are at the core of our mission to improve the health of our community. Patient safety is improved when patients and their families become active participants in the healthcare team. By following the suggestions provided below for working with your physician and other healthcare providers, you can improve the quality and safety of the care you receive.

Your Healthcare Safety

n Don’t Be Shy: Ask if you have questions or concerns.

n If you don’t understand, ask again. It’s your body, and you have a right to know.

n Don’t be embarrassed.

n Don’t be afraid to ask about safety and/or medication issues.

n If you are worried, we want to know.

Pay Attention to the Care You Are Receiving

Make sure you’re getting the right treatments and medications by the right Saint Alphonsus staff person.

Tell your nurse or doctor if something doesn’t seem right.

Expect staff to introduce themselves when they enter your room and look for their name badge. All Saint Alphonsus staff and physicians wear photo ID badges.

Hand washing is the most important way to prevent infections. If you don’t see your nurse or caregiver wash his or her hands or use a hand sanitizer before touching you, ask about it.

Staff should ask your name and date of birth and check your wristband before giving you medication or performing a treatment.

Educate Yourself About Your Diagnosis, Medical Tests, and Treatment

Gather information about your condition by asking your doctor or nurse questions.

Access information on our web site, www.saintalphonsus.org, where we partner with Healthwise to bring you the most current health information available. Our Kissler Library and Research Center staff can also help you find information. You may reach them at (208) 367-3993.

Safety in the Hospital–

Information you need to know