140 Nutt Road Phoenixville, PA 19460 610-983-1000 · Comfort and Quietness 11 Fall Precautions 11...

140 Nutt RoadPhoenixville, PA 19460

610-983-1000phoenixvillehospital.com

Patient Guide

Hospital

Phone DirectoryPage 8

Members of the Robotic Surgery team at Phoenixville Hospital

remember to sPeak uP!6

stay safe wHile in tHe HosPitalPage 22

ease tHe transition from HosPital to HomePage 31

©2013 PatientPoint®, LLC phoenixvillehospital.com 610-983-1000 : 1

In This Guide

OUR ADDRESS140 Nutt Road

Phoenixville, PA 19460

16Speak Up

Take charge of your care.

Welcome to Phoenixville Hospital 3

A Welcome From Your Nursing Team 4

A Few Words about Quality and the Patient Experience 5

About Us 5

Our Commitment to Care 6

Rapid Response Team 7

Telephone Directory 8

Your Satisfaction 9

During Your Stay 10-14Visitor Guidelines 10For Your Convenience 10Waiting Rooms 11Public Restrooms 11Your Room 11Comfort and Quietness 11Fall Precautions 11Calling Your Nurse 11Valuables 12Your Hospital Bed 12ID Bracelets 12Interpreters 12

Phoenixville Hospital is not, in any way, responsible for the advertisements in this booklet. Phoenixville Hospital makes no representation or endorsement of any kind related to the advertised services, entities, or businesses. Phoenixville Hospital receives no remuneration in exchange for any advertisement. 022013

17Your Rights and Responsibilities

In this Guide continued

2 : 610-983-1000 phoenixvillehospital.com ©2013 PatientPoint®, LLC

36Watch What You EatBe aware of side effects

35Resources

During Your Stay continuedFor the Hearing Impaired 12Telephones 12Public Telephones 12Fire Safety 12Smoking 13Electrical Appliances 13Mail and Flowers 13Patient Meals 13TV 13Newspaper 13ATM 13Where’s the Cafeteria? 14Phoenix Cafe 14Vending Machines 14Guest Meals 14Gift Shop 14Pastoral Care 14

Television Channel Listing 15

Speak Up 16

Your Rights & Responsibilities 17-21

Stay Safe 22-25

What are Your Advance Directives? 26

Your Privacy & Health Information 27-28

Do You Have Pain? 29-30

Preparing to Leave the Hospital 31-34

Resources 35

Watch What You Eat 36-38

Medication Safety Tips & Information Log 39

Medication Tracker 40

22Stay Safe

You can contributeto health care safety.

phoenixvillehospital.com 610-983-1000 : 3

Welcome to Phoenixville Hospital

Our Mission At Phoenixville Hospital, “where caring comes first,” we…

care about qualitycare about servicecare about our community.

Welcome to Phoenixville Hospital and thank you for choosing Phoenixville for your healthcare needs. Our physicians, nurses and staff are committed to service excellence for our patients and their families. While you are here, our focus is to meet your physical and personal needs and treat you with compassion and respect.

This Patient Guide is intended to answers most of your questions about your stay. If there is anything you need that is not included in this guide, please ask any member of our staff for information and help.

Our goal is to make your experience at Phoenixville Hospital as comfortable as possible and exceed your expectations for care. Your feedback is important to us. If you are satisfied with your care, let your healthcare team know, and, if you are not satisfied, tell us right away so we can make things better.

We extend our wishes for a rapid recovery and will work diligently with you to help with your healing process.

Sincerely,

Steve TullmanChief Executive Officer

4 : 610-983-1000 phoenixvillehospital.com

A Welcome From Your Nursing Team

Hello from the Nursing Team at Phoenixville Hospital, where Nursing Excellence is our guiding principle. Your healing and comfort are the focus of our entire nursing team. To ensure your comfort, our nurses will always check on you at least once an hour dur-ing the day and once every two hours at night. Your nursing team will ask you about your pain level, bathroom needs and overall comfort level. Our hope is to anticipate your needs so you can focus on healing.

A Registered Nurse is in charge of your comfort and recovery, and a nurse manager supervises your unit. If at any point during your stay you are not satisfied with your care or have questions about your care, please contact your nurse or the nurse manager and we will make every attempt to make you more comfortable.

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and your feedback is very important to us. Please let us know if we are meeting our goals, and if not, how we can improve your care.

Sincerely,

Sally Strzelecki, EdD, RN, NEA-BCChief Nursing Officer

OUR ADDRESS140 Nutt RoadPhoenixville, PA 19460610-983-1000


Your Opinion CountsSoon after your discharge, Health Stream Market Research may call you on behalf of our hospital to conduct a confidential patient satisfaction survey. Please take the time to speak with the representative and share your opinions about your hospital stay. Your feedback is an important part of our goal of improving the care and services we provide.

A Few Words About Quality and the Patient Experience

Quality means ensuring a safe patient environment where excellent care is provided with integrity and compassion. Phoenixville Hospital’s team of physicians, nurses, and staff are committed to providing care that exceeds patients’ expectations of quality and service. Patient safety is priority and we take every possible precaution with your care while you are in our hospital. Our systems, processes and health outcomes are continuously measured, assessed and improved. Patients’ feedback about their hospital experience is equally as important. We conduct patient surveys to help us continuously provide services that patients expect and deserve. We know that you have a choice in healthcare. We sincerely hope your patient care experience will allow you to choose Phoenixville Hospital for all your future healthcare needs.

Sincerely,

Sue Reichenbach Chief Quality Officer

About Us Phoenixville Hospital is a 137-bed acute-care facility with clinical partnerships with the University of Pennsylvania Health System, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Hand Center, Moore Eye Institute and Abington Memorial Hospital. The hospital provides comprehensive medical services through approximately 25,000 emergency room visits, 8,200 inpatient admissions and more than 700 community outreach programs annually. Approximately 1,000 babies are delivered each year. A full range of services and programs are offered, including an award-winning cardiovascular program, fully accredited cancer center, comprehensive women’s health services, the area’s largest Robotic Surgery Center and the Breast Health Center at Phoenixville.

The Phoenixville Hospital Outpatient & Surgery Center at Limerick, located just off Route 422, offers diagnostic imaging, outpatient surgery, pain management, wound care and other services. The Surgery Center of the Main Line is an outpatient surgery center located in Wayne, PA off of Route 30. The Blue Bell Surgery Center is an outpatient surgery center located on E. Township Line Road in Blue Bell.


Our Commitment to Care

Ethics Committee Phoenixville Hospital is dedicated

to providing our patients and their families with the best possible care and support. This mission is guided by our core values of quality, service, community and accountability.

During the treatment and recovery from injuries and disease, it is not uncommon for a patient, family or healthcare provider to be confronted with a difficult ethical issue. To help with these ethical issues, we have formed an Ethics Committee, which is made up of physicians, nurses, social workers, a physical therapist, respiratory therapist, clergy and a community representative.

Our ResponsibilitiesIn addition to meeting regularly to discuss patient and institutional issues, the Ethics Committee provides educational programs, reviews hospital policies and procedures, and provides clinical ethics consultations. As we carry out these activities our ethicist will guide us by providing advice, oversight and ongoing education.

Clinical ethics consultations can be requested by anyone—patients, families/surrogates, members of the healthcare team, hospital employees, etc. Clinical ethics consultations are confidential; as such the privacy of the patient, family and healthcare team will be protected. The identity of the person requesting the consultation is considered confidential and is withheld as a matter of policy.

Clinical Ethics Consultations can be requested, for example, when:

1. A patient, family member or surrogate decision-maker needs assistance in addressing a difficult ethical issue in order to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

2. A member of the healthcare team is confronted with a difficult ethical issue and needs assistance when there is a concern as to what care plan promoted the patient’s best interest and the healthcare providers sense of professional ethics.

3. A conflict has arisen between a patient, their family/surrogate and the healthcare team, or some combination thereof, regarding an ethical issue.

To Request A Clinical Ethics ConsultationCall the hospital operator and ask them to page the administrator on call. Because the Ethics Committee is funded by the hospital, clinical ethics consultations are provided without charge and are typically available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Phoenixville Hospital, like many hospitals nationally, is focusing on eliminating problems that affect optimal patient care. As a result, we’ve created a ‘Rapid Response Team’ line for patients, family or visitors to call for assistance.

When to CallYou can call the Rapid Response team:n If there is a noticeable change in the patient’s condition

that needs immediate attention and the healthcare team is not recognizing or addressing the concern.

n If after speaking with a member of the healthcare team (i.e. nurses, physicians), you continue to have serious concerns on how care is being given, managed or planned.

Warning signs that a patient is getting worse:n Changes in the heart or respiratory (breathing) raten A drop in blood pressuren Changes in urinary output (much more or much

less urine)n Change in level of consciousnessn Any time you are worried about the patient

Where to CallCall “HELP” or 4357 from your bedside phone. This is a special line just for the Rapid Response Team. The hospital operator will ask for caller identification, room number, patient name, and patient concern. In most cases, a Rapid Response Team will be activated.A team of medical professionals will arrive in your room to assess the situation. The Rapid Response team consists of the nursing supervisor or ICU RN and a Respiratory Care Therapist. Additional staff will be called in as needed and the physician will be called for consultation.

What is the Rapid Response Team?The Rapid Response Team is a group of specially trained individuals who bring critical-care expertise to the patient. The purpose of the team is to quickly check the condition of the patient and provide help before there is a medical emergency.

Rapid Response Team


Your health care is our priority. To determine where improvements are needed, this hospital takes part in the HCAHPS survey. The HCAHPS survey measures your satisfaction with the quality of your care. It is designed to be a standardized tool for measuring and reporting satisfaction across all hospitals in the U.S.

After you are released from the hospital, you may be selected to participate in the HCAHPS survey. The survey asks 27 multiple choice questions about your hospital stay.

What is HCAHPS?The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Health Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey is backed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The survey is used to improve the quality of health care. HCAHPS makes survey results public so hospitals are aware of where changes are needed. The results also enable healthcare consumers to review and compare hospitals before choosing a healthcare provider.

Your Satisfaction Albert einstein 1879-1955

Truth is what stands the test of experience.

n

Hospital Compare is a government website that allows users to compare the quality of care provided by hospitals. The information provided on this website is based on HCAHPS survey results.www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov

n

The Joint Commission has created quality and safety standards for healthcare organizations. The Joint Commission reviews, accredits, and certifies healthcare organizations that meet their high standards. Quality reports for all accredited organizations are available on their website.www.qualitycheck.org

We encourage your feedback to improve care.

You are part of the team CommuniCate It’s your health; don’t be afraid to ask your doctors and nurses questions.

PartiCiPate You are the center of your healthcare team so ask questions, understand your treatment plan and medications, and communicate with your doctors and nurses.

aPPreCiate There are hundreds of people in the hospital who need help; please be patient as doctors and nurses attend to everyone.

telephone Directory

Main Operator 610-983-1000Admissions 610-983-1071Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab 610-983-1243Case Management 610-983-1216Diagnostic Imaging Limerick 610-495-2370 Phoenixville 610-983-1103Emergency Room 610-983-1222Endoscopy Suite–GI Testing 610-983-1330Health Info Management (Medical Records) 610-983-1276Outpatient Laboratory 610-983-1160Patient Procedure/Test Scheduling 610-983-1100Women’s Health Pavilion Maternity 610-983-1250 Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit CHOP Care Network 610-983-1825

Phoenixville Hospital Centers and InstitutesBlue Bell Surgery Center 610-862-9550Breast Health Center at Phoenixville 610-983-1980Cancer Center–Penn Cancer Network 610-983-1800Moore Eye Institute at Phoenixville 610-422-5000Pain Management Institute 610-495-3838Surgery Center at Limerick 610-495-2600Surgery Center of the Main Line 610-586-0227Robotic Surgery Center 610-983-1370

Phoenixville Hospital ResourcesHealthy Woman Program 610-983-1022Senior Circle 610-983-1424Senior Resource Center 610-983-1773Support Groups 610-983-1288

MAIN NUMBER610-983-1000

Gift Box Gift Shop610-983-1068

Please visit us atphoenixvillehospital.com

Calling a Department WITHIN the Hospital?Dial the last four digits of the number.


Your health care is our priority. To determine where improvements are needed, this hospital takes part in the HCAHPS survey. The HCAHPS survey measures your satisfaction with the quality of your care. It is designed to be a standardized tool for measuring and reporting satisfaction across all hospitals in the U.S.

After you are released from the hospital, you may be selected to participate in the HCAHPS survey. The survey asks 27 multiple choice questions about your hospital stay.

What is HCAHPS?The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Health Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey is backed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The survey is used to improve the quality of health care. HCAHPS makes survey results public so hospitals are aware of where changes are needed. The results also enable healthcare consumers to review and compare hospitals before choosing a healthcare provider.

Your Satisfaction Albert einstein 1879-1955

Truth is what stands the test of experience.

n

Hospital Compare is a government website that allows users to compare the quality of care provided by hospitals. The information provided on this website is based on HCAHPS survey results.www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov

n

The Joint Commission has created quality and safety standards for healthcare organizations. The Joint Commission reviews, accredits, and certifies healthcare organizations that meet their high standards. Quality reports for all accredited organizations are available on their website.www.qualitycheck.org

We encourage your feedback to improve care.

You are part of the team CommuniCate It’s your health; don’t be afraid to ask your doctors and nurses questions.

PartiCiPate You are the center of your healthcare team so ask questions, understand your treatment plan and medications, and communicate with your doctors and nurses.

aPPreCiate There are hundreds of people in the hospital who need help; please be patient as doctors and nurses attend to everyone.


During Your Stay

We have policies and procedures in place to help you and your family work with our doctors, nurses and staff to get the most from your hospital stay. Please take a few minutes to review these guidelines with your loved ones.

Visitor GuidelinesWe encourage visitors for emotional support and recovery. To provide a restful and safe environment, we ask that all visitors comply with the following guidelines:n Plan to visit between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and

8:00 p.m. to allow for patients rest and healing.n Limit visitors to 2 per visit for no more than 20

minutes at a time for medical/surgical patients, and 5 minutes for Intensive Care patients.

n Children under 12 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

n Please allow patients their privacy by waiting for another elevator during patient transport.

n Be considerate of other patients by refraining from loud conversation and keeping noise to a minimum.

n Refrain from visiting if you have a cold, sore throat, or any contagious disease.

n Observe “No Visiting” and precaution signs before entering the room.

n Leave the room during tests, treatments and change of shift reports if asked.

n Overnight stays for families of patients will be considered under special circumstances. Family involvement in care of loved ones is encouraged and a nurse will be happy to discuss it.

n It is suggested that only one family member serve as a communication contact regarding the patient’s condition and a mutual condition update time can be arranged with a nurse.

For Your Convenience…A pharmacy, fast food restaurants, banks and Automatic Teller Machines, shops and a convenience store are all within walking distance of the hospital.

MaternitySiblings of any age are invited to visit. It is recommended that visitors other than siblings must be 14 years of age or older. Fathers: can stay overnight. Sleep sofas are provided in each postpartum room.


Some restaurants and pizza shops will deliver. (Please check with your nurse for your diet restrictions.)

Waiting RoomsOur third floor surgical waiting area, is provided by Phoenixville Hospital Auxiliary volunteers for friends and families of surgical patients. Located on the third floor, it serves as a lounge for people waiting for pre-admission anesthesiology consultations or appointments in Respiratory Services.

Public RestroomsVisitors please do not use the bathrooms in patient rooms. They are reserved only for patients in order to protect their health. Public restrooms are located on all floors near the elevators.

Your RoomWe are pleased to offer our patients private rooms.

Comfort and QuietnessWe care about your comfort and our team is committed to doing everything we can to help ensure you have a comfortable and peaceful stay. We recognize that quietness during the night is integral to your healing process. Here are just a few of the things that we are doing to help you get a good night’s sleep: n For increased quietness and also to respect your

privacy, we will close the door to your room. (Especially at night.)

n Hallway lights will be dimmed after visiting hours.n We ask patients and visitors to turn cell phones to

vibrate to decrease noise levels.n Channel 36 on your television plays relaxing

instrumental music 24 hours a day.n Earplugs are available if you would like them. Ask

your nurse for a pair.If you have questions about our quietness initiatives or if you have ideas about how we can make your stay more comfortable, please contact your nurse.

Fall PrecautionsIf you are at an increased risk of falling, a yellow magnet will be placed at the door of your room to alert our staff. Nurses will also place a yellow band on your wrist and provide you with yellow socks and a blanket. In order to help keep you as safe as possible, we’ll keep your call bell within reach at all times, keep the bed in its low position with the brake on and keep your walkways clear.

It is important to let your nurse know about your normal routines and any dizziness. Use non-slip footwear and ask for help when moving about the room.

Calling Your NurseTo call for assistance, press the call button. If you choose to employ a private-duty nurse, the Nurse Manager must approve the nurse’s qualifications.

For everyone’s health and safety, visitors should not use patient bathrooms.


During Your Stay

Your Hospital BedTo adjust your bed, use the controls on the side rails.

ID BraceletsAn identification bracelet will be placed on your wrist to assure that your correct name and date of birth are available to hospital staff at all times. Frequently you will be asked by nurses and technicians to verify your name and date of birth. This will help assure your safety while in the hospital. Various color-coded bracelets are also used to help identify special information about you, such as allergies.

InterpretersTelephone interpreter service is available for non-English speaking patients. Speak with your nurse for information.

For the Hearing ImpairedVoice amplified phones are located in the Emergency Services waiting room. TDD phones are also available upon request. Your nurse can also secure a sign language interpreter as necessary.

TelephonesTelephones are provided in all patient rooms free of charge. Friends and family can call you by dialing 610-983-1000.

In the interest of other patients’ need for rest, you may receive calls from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Please inform your family and friends of these restrictions.

Public TelephonesPublic telephones are located near the elevators and adjacent to the main hospital lobby on the first floor.

Fire SafetyWe periodically conduct fire drills. If you hear an alarm, stay where you are. In the event of an actual emergency, hospital staff will notify you.

Leave Your Valuables At Home If you have valuables, such as credit cards, jewelry and cash, please give them to a relative or friend to take care of during your stay.Contact lenses, eyeglasses, hearing aids and dentures should be stored in your bedside stand when not in use. Please don’t put them on your bed or food tray—they may be damaged or lost.

ValuablesIf you cannot send your valuables home, please speak with your nurse about securing them in the hospital safe.


Smoking Smoking and/or the use of any tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted anywhere in the hospital or on hospital grounds. Observe the rules and remind your visitors about not smoking while on the hospital campus. Ask your nurse for helpful tips on not smoking or re-quest a nicotine patch prescription from your physician.

Electrical AppliancesElectrical appliances including hair dryers, curling irons, razors, radios, heating pads, portable heaters, VCRs, computers and other devices are not permitted in patient rooms. You may use only battery-operated devices.

Mail and FlowersMail and packages will be delivered to you by a hospital volunteer. Individual florists deliver flowers to patient rooms. Please note that flowers are prohibited in intensive care units. Any mail received after your discharge will be forwarded to the your home address.

Outgoing mail may be taken to the nursing station or given to your attending nurse. Postage stamps are available in the gift shop.

Patient MealsIn order to better serve our patients, we have developed an innovative meal preparation and delivery system, which we call At Your Request–Room Service Dining®. The basic concept behind At Your Request–Room Service Dining® is that you can order “what you want, when you want it” from your bedside menu within your prescribed diet. Our menu is available in your room upon admission.

Your physician must assign your diet and that diet will be posted in your medical record before we can take your order. Your nurse will know if that diet has been assigned. Our operator will also inform you if there is no diet in your record yet. You may order any of your meals between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. If you

TVTelevisions are provided in each patient room, free of charge.

Please be considerate of others by keeping the TV volume down and turning off your TV at bedtime. Channel listings are located on page 15.

NewspapersLocal, regional and national newspapers are available from vending boxes located at the front, first floor entrance of the hospital.

ATMFor your convenience, an automated teller machine (ATM) is located, on the first floor across from the Information Desk.


During Your Stay

are unsure about how to order your meals, we have an instructional video on your TV located on channel 38.

The ordering process is very simple. All you have to do is dial extension FOOD (3663) on your room phone and one of our qualified staff members will take your order. Your order will then be verified for diet compliance and prepared according to your specifications. Following preparation, your meal will be delivered to your bedside within 45 minutes by a Host/Hostess. If you find that you need assistance in setting up your bed table or opening any containers, please feel free to request this help when the Host/Hostess arrives in your room.

Please be aware of the following info when you call to order:n Your namen Your room #n The foods you would like to receive

Guest MealsGuests may dine with a patient. Contact the unit clerk at the nurses’ station and make arrangements for a tray to be delivered. Meals must be paid for with cash at time of delivery. There is an ATM located in the North Tower vending area on the 1st Floor.

Gift ShopThe hospital’s gift shop is located in the main hospital lobby across from the Information Desk. The shop sells gifts, cards and fresh flowers. Cash, check and credit cards accepted.

Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. & 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Noon to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral CareWe welcome clergy to visit patients. If you would like a clergy member to visit, contact your nurse to assist in the arrangements. A chapel/quiet room is available on the third floor near the Intensive Care Unit.

Where’s theCafeteria?LOCATION:First floorVisitors are welcome to dine in the cafeteria.

HOURS:Lunch11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Dinner5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Phoenix CafeThe Snack Bar is located on the first floor and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays. The cafe is closed Sundays.

Vending MachinesVending machines offering beverages and snacks are located on the first floor across from the Information Desk. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Television Channel Listing

We are pleased to provide you with television service free-of-charge.

5 General Education Tips6 The Patient Channel20 PBS21 PHL 1722 Fox 2923 CW Philly (UPN 57)24 CBS25 ABC26 NBC28 Fox News29 Discovery30 TLC31 TNT33 AMC34 The Weather Channel35 ESPN36 Music Channel (relaxing, instrumental music) 38 Room Service Dining Information

During your stay, the doctors, nurses and staff of your hospital will treat you and your family as partners in your own care. One important way that you can be involved is to speak up. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and don’t be afraid to raise any issues relating not only to your care and treatment, but also to overall hospital services.

In the pages that follow, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making the most of your hospital stay—how to stay safe, get the information you need, ask the right questions, and interact effectively with your doctors, nurses and hospital staff.

Speak Up!

S TAT N OT E n Write down any questions you haven Choose a family member to communicate with the doctors and staffn Keep a list of doctors you see and the medications they prescribe

WILLIAM SHAkESPEARE 1564-1616

Boldness be my friend.

STEP UP & SPEAK UPSPEAK UPAsk questions and voice concerns. It’s your body and you have a right to know.

PAY ATTENTIONMake sure you’re getting the right treatments and medicines.

EDUCATE YOURSELFLearn about the medical tests you get and your treatment plan.

FIND AN ADVOCATEPick a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.

WHAT MEDS & WHYKnow what medicines you take and why you take them.

CHECK BEFORE YOU GOUse a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of health care organization that meets The Joint Commission’s quality standards.

PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CAREYou are the center of the health care team.Courtesy of The Joint Commission.

Take charge of your care.

See My Medications to keep track

of what you are given in the hospital.



Rights & Responsibilities

Speak Up! As a patient, family member or guardian of a patient,we want you to know the rights you have under federal and Pennsylvania state law as soon as possible in your stay at the hospital and its outpatient surgery departments. We are committed to honoring your rights, and want you to know that by taking an active role in your health care, you can help your caregivers meet your needs as a patient or family member. That is why we ask that you and your family share with us certain responsibilities.

Your RightsAs a patient, you or your legally responsible party have the right to receive care without discrimination due to age, sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, income, education, national origin, ancestry, marital status, culture, language, disability, gender identity, or who will pay your bill. As our patient, you have the right to safe, respectful, and dignified care at all times. You will receive services and care that are medically suggested and within Phoenixville Hospital’s services, its stated mission, and required law and regulation.

CommunicationYou have the right to:n Have a family member, another person

that you choose, or your doctor notified when you are admitted to the hospital and its outpatient surgery departments.

n Be informed of your rights at the earliest possible moment in the course of your hospitalization.

n Receive information in a way that you understand. This includes

interpretation and translation, free of charge, in the language you prefer for talking about your health care. This also includes providing you with needed help if you have vision, speech, hearing, or cognitive impairments.

n Designate a support person, if needed, to act on your behalf to assert and protect your patient rights.

Informed DecisionsYou have the right to:n Receive information about your

diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, including information about alternative treatments and possible complications, recovery, ongoing health care needs, and future health status in terms that you understand. When it is not medically advisable to give such information to the patient, the information shall be given on your behalf to next of kin or other appropriate person.

n Be informed about proposed care options including the risks and benefits, other care options, what could happen without care, and the outcome(s) of any medical care provided, including any outcomes that were not expected. You may need to sign your name before the start of any procedure and/or care. “Informed consent” is not required in the case of an emergency.

n Be involved in all aspects of your care and to take part in decisions about your care.

n Make choices about your care based on your own spiritual and personal values.

n Request care. This right does not mean you can demand care or services that are not medically needed.



n Refuse any care, therapy, drug, or procedure against the medical advice of a doctor. There may be times that care must be provided based on the law.

n Expect the hospital to get your permission before taking photos, recording, or filming you, if the purpose is for something other than patient identification, care, diagnosis, or therapy.

n Decide to take part or not take part in research or clinical trials for your condition, or donor programs that may be suggested by your doctor. Your participation in such care is voluntary, and written permission must be obtained from you or your legal representative before you participate. A decision to not take part in research or clinical trials will not affect your right to receive care.

VisitorsYou have the right to:n Decide if you want visitors or not

while you are here. The hospital may need to limit visitors to better care for you or other patients.

n Designate those persons who can visit you during your stay. These individuals do not need to be legally related to you.

n Designate a support person who may determine who can visit you if you become incapacitated.

Advance DirectivesYou have the right to:n Create advance directives, which are legal

papers that allow you to decide now what you want to happen if you are no longer healthy enough to make decisions about your care. You have the right to have

hospital personnel comply with these directives within the limits of the law.

n Ask about and discuss the ethics of your care, including resolving any conflicts that might arise such as, deciding against, withholding, or withdrawing life-sustaining care.

Care PlanningYou have the right to:n Receive a medical screening exam to

determine treatment.n Participate in the care that you receive

in the hospital.n Receive instructions on follow-up

care and participate in decisions about your plan of care after you are out of the hospital.

n Receive a prompt and safe transfer to the care of others when this hospital is not able to meet your request or need for care or service. You have the right to know why a transfer to another health care facility might be required, as well as learning about other options for care. The hospital cannot transfer you to another hospital unless that hospital has agreed to accept you.

Care DeliveryYou have the right to:n Expect emergency procedures

to be implemented without unnecessary delay.

n Receive care in a safe setting free from any form of abuse, harassment, and neglect.

n Receive kind, respectful, safe, quality care delivered by skilled and competent personnel.



n Know the names of doctors and nurses providing care to you and the names and roles of other health care workers and staff that are caring for you.

n Request a consultation by another health care provider.

n Receive proper assessment and management of pain, including the right to request or reject any or all options to relieve pain.

n Receive care free from restraints or seclusion unless necessary to provide medical, surgical, or behavioral health care.

n Receive efficient and quality care with high professional standards that are continually maintained and reviewed.

n Expect good management techniques to be implemented within the hospital and its outpatient surgical departments, considering effective use of your time and avoid the personal discomfort to you.

Privacy and ConfidentialityYou have the right to:n Limit who knows about your being

in the hospital.n Be interviewed, examined, and discuss

your care in places designed to protect your privacy.

n Be advised why certain people are present and to ask others to leave during sensitive talks or procedures.

n Expect all communications and records related to care, including who is paying for your care, to be treated as private.

n Receive written notice that explains how your personal health information will be used and shared with other health care professionals involved in your care. If

you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you may file a complaint in writing with our Privacy Officer or with the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

n Review and request copies of your medical record unless restricted for medical or legal reasons.

Hospital BillsYou have the right to:n Review, obtain, request, and receive a

detailed explanation of your hospital charges and bills.

n Receive information and counseling on ways to help pay for the hospital bill.

n Request information about any business or financial arrangements that may impact your care.

Complaints, Concerns,QuestionsYou and your family/guardian have the right to:n Tell hospital staff about your concerns

or complaints regarding your care. This will not affect your future care.

n Seek review of quality of care concerns, coverage decisions, and concerns about your discharge.

n Expect a timely response to your complaint or grievance from the hospital. Complaints or grievances may be made in writing, by phone, or in person. The hospital has a duty to respond to these complaints or grievances in a manner that you can understand. To share your concerns with the hospital, please contact the hospital’s administration at 610-983-1480.


The Pennsylvania Department of Health is also available to assist you with any questions or concerns about your hospital care. You can reach the Department of Health by calling 800-254-5164 or writing:

Acute and Ambulatory Care Services Pennsylvania Department of Health Room 532 Health and Welfare Building 625 Forster StreetHarrisburg, PA 17120

You may also contact The Joint Commission, a hospital accreditation organization, at:

The Joint Commission –Office of Quality MonitoringOne Renaissance BoulevardOakbrook Terrace, IL 60181800-994-6610 or [email protected]

Your ResponsibilitiesAs a patient, family member, or guardian, you have the right to know all hospital rules and what we expect of you during your hospital stay.

Provide InformationAs a patient, family member, or guardian, we ask that you:n Provide accurate and complete

information about current health care problems, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, and other matters relating to your health.

n Report any condition that puts you at risk (for example, allergies or hearing problems).

n Report unexpected changes in

your condition to the health care professionals taking care of you.

n Provide a copy of your Advance Directive, Living Will, Durable Power of Attorney for health care, and any organ/tissue donation permissions to the health care professionals taking care of you.

n Tell us who, if any, visitors you want during your stay.

Respect andConsiderationAs a patient, family member, or guardian, we ask that you:n Recognize and respect the rights of

other patients, families, and staff. Threats, violence, or harassment of other patients and hospital staff will not be tolerated.

n Comply with the hospital’s no smoking policy.

n Refrain from conducting any illegal activity on hospital property. If such activity occurs, the hospital will report it to the police.

SafetyAs a patient, family member, or guardian, we ask that you:n Promote your own safety by becoming

an active, involved, and informed member of your health care team.

n Ask questions if you are concerned about your health or safety.

n Make sure your doctor knows the site/side of the body that will be operated on before a procedure.

n Remind staff to check your identification before medications are given, blood/blood products



are administered, blood samples are taken, or before any procedure.

n Remind caregivers to wash their hands before taking care of you.

n Be informed about which medications you are taking and why you are taking them.

n Ask all hospital staff to identify themselves upon entering your room.

Refusing CareAs a patient:n You are responsible for your actions

if you refuse care or do not follow care instructions.

ChargesAs a patient:n You are responsible for paying for

the health care that you received as promptly as possible.

CooperationAs a patient:n You are expected to follow the care plans

suggested by the health care professionals caring for you while in the hospital. You should work with your health care professionals to develop a plan that you will be able to follow while in the hospital and after you leave the hospital.


Notes

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While you are in the hospital, many people will enter your room, from doctors and nurses to aides and orderlies. The following information will help make your hospital stay safe and comfortable.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask…A number of people may enter your hospital room. Be sure to:n Ask for the ID of everyone who comes into your room.n Speak up if our hospital staff does not ask to check

your ID bracelet for your name and birth date. n Ask if the person has washed their hands before they touch you.n If you are told you need certain tests or procedures, ask why you need them, when they will happen, and how long it will be before you get the results.

Stay Safe

HENRY H. TWEEDY 1868-1953

Fear is the father of courage and the mother of safety.

YOU’RE IN ChARGEErrors can occur during your hospital stay. They can involve medications, procedures or paperwork—for example, being given salt with a meal when you’re on a salt-free diet, or receiving someone else’s medical forms.

You can help prevent errors by taking charge of your care. Be sure to:n stay informed about your medical conditionn know the details of your treatment plann understand the tests and procedures you will undergo

Your doctor can answer these questions. Take notes when you speak with your doctor, or have a trusted friend or family member take notes for you, so you can refer to them later. Also ask for any written information your doctor may be able to provide about your condition and/or treatments. Remember—you’re in charge.

You can contribute to health care safety.

What about your valuables?See page 12.


YOU’RE IN ChARGEErrors can occur during your hospital stay. They can involve medications, procedures or paperwork—for example, being given salt with a meal when you’re on a salt-free diet, or receiving someone else’s medical forms.

You can help prevent errors by taking charge of your care. Be sure to:n stay informed about your medical conditionn know the details of your treatment plann understand the tests and procedures you will undergo

Your doctor can answer these questions. Take notes when you speak with your doctor, or have a trusted friend or family member take notes for you, so you can refer to them later. Also ask for any written information your doctor may be able to provide about your condition and/or treatments. Remember—you’re in charge.

What about your valuables?See page 12. Fighting Infections

While you’re in the hospital to get well, you should know that there is the possibility of developing an infection. The single most important thing you can do to help prevent infections is to wash your hands and make sure that everyone who touches you—including your doctors and nurses—wash their hands, too.

You, your family and friends should wash hands:1. after touching objects or surfaces in the hospital room2. before eating3. after using the restroom

It is also important that your healthcare providers wash their hands with either soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand cleaner every time, both before and after they touch you. Healthcare providers know to practice hand hygiene, but sometimes they forget. You and your family should not be afraid or embar-rassed to speak up and ask them to wash their hands.

Preventing Medication ErrorsBy taking part in your own care, you can help the members of your health care team avoid medication errors. Here’s how:

Be sure that all of your doctors know what medications you have been taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal and vitamin supplements, natural remedies and recreational drugs.

Be sure that all of your doctors know of any allergies you may have—to medications, anesthesia, foods, latex products, etc.

When you are brought medications or IV fluids, ask the person to check to be sure you are the patient who is supposed to receive the medications. Show that person your ID bracelet to double-check. Remember--you play an important role in helping to reduce medication errors.

happy Birthday to You!Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. That’s about the same amount of time that it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.

No Soap? No ProblemAlcohol-based hand cleaners can be as effective as soap and water in killing germs. To use, apply the cleaner to the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. Keep rubbing over all the surfaces of your fingers and hands until they are dry.


Know Your Meds While you are hospitalized, your doctor may prescribe medications for you. Be sure that you understand exactly what they are and why they are being prescribed. Use this checklist to help you get the information you need from your doctor:

What is the name of the medicine? What is its generic name?

Why am I taking this medicine? What dose will I be taking?

How often, and for how long? What are the possible side effects? Can I take this medicine while taking my other medications or

dietary supplements? Are there any foods, drinks or activities that

I should avoid while taking this medicine?

Preventing FallsPatients often fall because they are on medications that make them dizzy, they are weak and unsteady due to illness or medical procedures, or because they’ve been sitting or lying down for too long. For your safety, please:

n Always call for assistance before getting out of bed.n Wear properly-fitting shoes with nonskid soles.n Keep the call button within easy reach.n Have necessary items within reach, such

as your glasses, tissues, the telephone, and anything else you need.n When you get assistance, rise slowly from your bed or chair to prevent dizziness.n Walk close to the wall and hold onto the

handrail while in the bathroom.

DVT: LOWER YOUR RISKDeep-vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in the legs and block circulation. The clots can lodge in the brain, heart or lungs, causing damage or even death. When you’re hospitalized and in bed with limited physical activity, your risk of DVT increases. Ask your doctor about using compression boots or stockings and/or blood thinners to prevent DVT during your stay.

Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following warning signs:

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _A leg cramp or charley horse that gets worse _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Swelling and discoloration in your leg, upper arm

or neck _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Unexplained shortness of breath

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Chest discomfort that gets worse when you breathe

deeply or cough _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Light-headedness or

blacking out

Patients of all ages are at risk of falls because of medications that may make them dizzy, weak, or unsteady.

USe The MeDiCATion TrACker on PAge 40 To heLP yoU MoniTor yoUr MeDiCATionS.

Stay Safe continued

Pneumonia and Flu Vaccines In accordance with state law, Phoenixville Hospital will offer the pneumonia vaccine to patients who have never had the vaccine and meet the following criteria: patients age 65 and older; and those between the ages of 6 and 64 who are at high risk of acquiring pneumonia.

The influenza vaccine is available to all inpatients 6 months and older between October 1st and March 31st each year. A nurse will complete a questionnaire with you prior to your discharge to see


DVT: LOWER YOUR RISKDeep-vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood clots form in the legs and block circulation. The clots can lodge in the brain, heart or lungs, causing damage or even death. When you’re hospitalized and in bed with limited physical activity, your risk of DVT increases. Ask your doctor about using compression boots or stockings and/or blood thinners to prevent DVT during your stay.

Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following warning signs:

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _A leg cramp or charley horse that gets worse _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Swelling and discoloration in your leg, upper arm

or neck _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Unexplained shortness of breath

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Chest discomfort that gets worse when you breathe

deeply or cough _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Light-headedness or

blacking out

Patients of all ages are at risk of falls because of medications that may make them dizzy, weak, or unsteady.

Pneumonia and Flu Vaccines In accordance with state law, Phoenixville Hospital will offer the pneumonia vaccine to patients who have never had the vaccine and meet the following criteria: patients age 65 and older; and those between the ages of 6 and 64 who are at high risk of acquiring pneumonia.

The influenza vaccine is available to all inpatients 6 months and older between October 1st and March 31st each year. A nurse will complete a questionnaire with you prior to your discharge to see

if it is appropriate for you to receive the vaccines. Information on the flu vaccine (Inactivated Influenza Vaccine) and the pneumonia vaccine (Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine) is included in this pocket for your review. Your physician, nurse, or hospital pharmacist is also available to answer any questions you may have.

If you agree to receive these vaccines after completion of the questionnaire, you will be given the vaccines before you leave the hospital at no cost to you.

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What are Your Advance Directives?

Patient Services Advance Directives You have the right to make decisions about your

own medical treatment. These decisions become more difficult if, due to illness or a change in mental condition, you are unable to tell your doctor and loved ones what kind of health care treatments you want. That is why it is important for you to make your wishes known in advance.

Here is a brief description of each kind of Directive:

Living WillA set of instructions documenting your wishes about life-sustaining medical care. It is used if you become terminally ill, incapacitated, or unable to communicate or make decisions. A living will protects your rights to accept or refuse medical care and removes the burden for making decisions from your family, friends, and medical professionals.

Healthcare Surrogate A person (agent) you appoint to make your medical decisions if you are unable to do so. Choose someone you know well and trust to represent your preferences. Be sure to discuss this with the person before naming them as your agent. Remember that an agent may have to use their judgment in the event of a medical decision for which your wishes aren’t known.

Durable Power of AttorneyFor healthcare: A legal document that names your healthcare surrogate. Once written, it should be signed, dated, witnessed, notarized, copied, and put into your medical record.

For finances: You may also want to appoint someone to manage your financial affairs when you cannot. A durable power of attorney for finances is a separate legal document from the durable power of attorney for healthcare. You may choose the same person for both, or choose different people to represent you.

What AreAdvance Directives?A living will, healthcare proxy, and durable power of attorney are the legal documents that allow you to give direction to medical personnel, family, and friends concerning your future care when you cannot speak for yourself. You do not need a lawyer in order to complete Advance Directives.

Keep It Current!To ensure that the hospital has your most current information, you must provide a new Advance Directive each time you are readmitted.

For more information about Advance Directives or to obtain forms, please speak with your nurse.


Your Privacy & Health Information

If you believe your health information was used or shared in a way that is not allowed under the privacy law, or if you weren’t able to exercise your rights, you can file a complaint with your provider or health insurer. You can also file a complaint with the U.S. government. Go online to www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/ for more information.

A separate law provides additional privacy protections to patients of alcohol and drug treatment programs. For more information, go online to www.samhsa.gov.

Privacy & Your Health Information You have privacy rights under a federal law that protects

your health information. These rights are important for you to know. Federal law sets rules and limits on who can look at and receive your health information.

Who must follow this law?n Most doctors, nurses, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics,

nursing homes, and many other health care providersn Health insurance companies, HMOs, and most

employer group health plansn Certain government programs that pay for health care,

such as Medicare and Medicaid

What information is protected?n Information your doctors, nurses, and other health

care providers put in your medical recordsn Conversations your doctor has with nurses and others

regarding your care or treatmentn Information about you in your health insurer’s systemn Billing information about you at your clinicn Most other health information about you held by

those who must follow this law

You have rights over your health information. Providers and health insurers who are required to follow this law must comply with your right to:n Ask to see and get a copy of your health recordsn Have corrections added to your health informationn Receive a notice that tells you how your health

information may be used and sharedn Decide if you want to give your permission before

your health information can be used or shared for certain purposes, such as for marketing

n Get a report on when and why your health information was shared for certain purposes

n File a complaintn Receive a copy of your medical record by signing

the appropriate release forms located in the health information department


Your Privacy & Health Information

To make sure that your health information is protected in a way that doesn’t interfere with your health care, your information can be used and shared:n For your treatment and care coordinationn To pay doctors and hospitals for your health care and

help run their businessesn With your family, relatives, friends, or others you

identify who are involved with your health care or your health care bills, unless you object

n To make sure doctors give good care and nursing homes are clean and safe

n To protect the public’s health, such as by reporting when the flu is in your area

n To make required reports to the police, such as reporting gunshot wounds

Without your written permission, your provider cannot:n Give your health information to your employern Use or share your health information for marketing or

advertising purposesn Share private notes about your mental health

counseling sessions

Adapted from U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights

how do I get copies of my medical records?Contact Health Information Management at ext. 1276.

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Pain Management You are the expert about how you are feeling.

Be sure to tell your doctor or nurse when you have any kind of pain. To help describe your pain, be sure to report:

n When the pain begann Where you feel painn How the pain feels—sharp, dull, throbbing,

burning, tinglingn If the pain is constant, or if it comes and goesn What, if anything, makes the pain feel bettern What, if anything, makes the pain feel worsen How much, if any, pain your medicine is taking awayn If your medicine helps with the pain, how many hours

of relief do you get?

If you are not able to talk and cannot tell us how bad your pain is, we have a picture scale you can use to let us know how much pain you are having. If you cannot use the picture scale, your nurses have been trained to observe and assess patients for pain and for response to pain medications.

You do not have to “just put up with” severe pain. You can work with your nurses and doctors to prevent or relieve pain. Ask questions so you know what to expect. This will help you be less afraid and more in control, which will make pain easier to handle. Do not worry about getting “hooked” on pain medicine. Studies have shown that the short-term use of pain medication is not addictive unless you already have a problem with drug abuse.

Communicating Pain Relief You will be asked to rate your pain on a number scale from 0 to 10. Zero stands for no pain, up the scale to 10, which represents the worst possible pain imaginable. Be honest when rating your pain. If the pain medication is not helping, let the nurse and doctor know. Ask your nurse to give you your medication before the pain gets

Do You Have Pain?

Pain Rating Scale

0 = VERY HAPPY, NO HURT

2 = HURTS JUST A LITTLE BIT

4 = HURTS A LITTLE MORE

6 = HURTS EVEN MORE

8 = HURTS A WHOLE LOT

10 = HURTS AS MUCH AS YOU CAN IMAGINE(Don’t have to be crying to

feel this much pain)

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worse or is at a pain level above “4.” If your pain gets ahead of the medication, you may not have the best level of relief.

Things to Remember You can get better pain control by doing the following:n Ask the doctors and nurses what to expect. Will there

be much pain? Where will it occur? How many days is it likely to last?

n Discuss your past pain-control experiences with your doctors and nurses; tell them what has worked well or not so well for you. In addition, tell them about any allergies to medicines you have, or prior substance abuse, and ask about side effects that may occur with treatments.

n Learn deep-breathing and relaxation exercises. Use massage or hot or cold packs to help decrease the pain experience if ordered by your doctor. If you want to listen to music, bring your preferred listening device.

n Take the pain medicine that is ordered, and take it when pain first begins. Your pain will be better con-trolled if you do not wait to take your medicine until the pain is worse.

n Take pain medicine before you do any activity that makes your pain worse.

n Stick with your pain-control plan if it is working. Your doctors and nurses can change the treatment if your pain is not under control.

Ask the doctors and nurses what to expect. Will there be much pain? Where will it occur? How many days is it likely to last?

Do You Have Pain?


Preparing to Leave the Hospital

An important part of your recovery is making sure that after you leave the hospital you get the care you need to get better. A nurse, case manager, social worker or discharge planner will help plan your follow-up care. If no one is assigned to help you with your discharge plan, tell your doctor or nurse. If you have trouble understanding the language being used, you should be provided with translated documents or an interpreter. If you have trouble hearing, you should ask for instructions in writing. All patients will be given important directions about their follow-up care, including written instructions. If you follow these directions, you will have a greater chance of getting well faster, and are less likely to return to the hospital.

Going HomeWhen your doctor feels you are ready to leave the hospital he or she will authorize a hospital discharge. Please speak with your nurse about our discharge procedures.

Here are few tips to make the discharge process run smoothly:n Be sure you and/or your caregiver have spoken with

a discharge planner and that you understand what services you may need after leaving the hospital.

n Verify your discharge date and time with your nurse or doctor.

n Have someone available to pick you up.n Check your room, bathroom and bedside table

carefully for any personal items.n Make sure you or your caregiver has all necessary

paperwork for billing, referrals, prescriptions, etc.

BillingThe hospital bill covers the cost of your room, meals, 24-hour nursing care, laboratory work, tests, medica-tion, therapy and the services of hospital employees. You will receive a separate bill from your physicians for their professional services. If you have questions about these separate bills, please call the number printed on each statement.

When You Are DischargedYour physician determines when you are ready to be discharged. Your physician and nurse will give you a folder with discharge instructions and answer any questions you have about managing your treatment and medications once you are home. If you are confused or unsure about what you need to do, what medications you must take, or if you have to restrict your diet or activities, don’t be afraid to ask and take notes.Be sure you understand any instructions you have been given before you leave the hospital.



The hospital is responsible for submitting bills to your insurance company and will do everything possible to expedite your claim. You should remember that your policy is a contract between you and your insurance company and that you have the final responsibility for payment of your hospital bill.

Coordination of Benefits (COB)Coordination of Benefits, referred to as COB, is a term used by insurance companies when you are covered under two or more insurance policies. This usually happens when both husband and wife are listed on each other’s insurance policies, or when both parents carry their children on their individual policies or when there is eligibility under two federal programs. This also can occur when you are involved in a motor vehicle accident and have medical insurance and automobile insurance.

Most insurance companies have COB provisions that determine who is the primary payer when medical expenses are incurred. This prevents duplicate payments. COB priority must be identified at admission in order to comply with insurance guidelines. Your insurance may request a completed COB form before paying a claim and every attempt will be made to notify you if this occurs. The hospital cannot provide this information to your insurance company. You must resolve this issue with your insurance carrier in order for the claim to be paid.

MedicareThis hospital is an approved Medicare provider. All services billed to Medicare follow federal guidelines and procedures. Medicare has a COB clause. At the time of service you will be asked to answer questions to help determine the primary insurance carrier paying for your visit. This is referred to as an MSP Questionnaire and is required by federal law. Your assistance in providing accurate information will allow us to bill the correct insurance company.

Commercial InsuranceAs a service to our customers, we will forward a claim to your commercial insurance carrier based on the information you provide at the time of registra-tion. It is very important for you to provide all related information such as policy number, group number and the correct mailing address for your insurance company.


Questions?If you are in need of assistance with your hospital billing, contact your nurse who will page a Financial Counselor. If requested, counselors are available to come to your room.

Medicare deductibles and co-insurance are covered by your secondary insurance. If you do not have secondary insurance you will be asked to pay these amounts or establish a payment plan. If you are unable to pay these amounts, we will help you determine if you qualify for a state-funded program.

MedicaidWe will need a copy of your Medicaid card for the current month. Medicaid has payment limitations on a number of services and items.

For Self-Pay PatientsPatient Financial Services Department will send statements for payment of self-pay accounts. You will receive two to three billing statements and two to three telephone calls over a 90-day period to obtain a payment or to make payment arrangements. If payment arrangements are not established and no payment is made during the 90-day period the account will be placed with a collection agency. If you need an itemized statement you can obtain one by calling our customer service department at the number listed below or by using the website at phoenixvillehospital.com. If you have any questions regarding your billing statement, you can contact the patient Financial Services Department at 800-430-3762.


Home Health CarePart-time health care provided by medical professionals in a patient’s home to maintain or restore health. It includes a wide range of skilled and non-skilled services, including part-time nursing care, therapy, and assistance with daily activities and homemaker services, such as cleaning and meal preparation. Medicare defines home health care as intermittent, physician-ordered medi-cal services or treatment.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME)Medical equipment that is ordered by a doctor for use in a patient’s home. Examples are walkers, crutches, wheel-chairs and hospital beds. DME is paid for under both Medicare Part B and Part A for home health services.

Independent LivingCommunities for seniors who are very independent and have few medical problems. Residents live in private apartments. Meals, housekeeping, maintenance and social outings and events are provided.

Assisted LivingAn apartment in a long-term care facility for elderly or disabled people who can no longer live on their own but who don’t need a high level of care. Assisted-living facilities provide

assistance with medications, meals in a cafeteria or restaurant-like setting, and housekeeping services. Nursing staff is on site. Most facilities have social activities and provide transportation to doctors’ appointments, shopping, etc.

Nursing HomeA residential facility for people with chronic illness or disability, particular-ly elderly people who need assistance for most or all of their daily living activities such as bathing, dressing and toileting. Nursing homes provide 24-hour skilled care, and are also called convalescent homes or long-term care facilities. Many nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays for patients recovering from an injury or illness. Some facilities also have a separate unit for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss.

HospiceA licensed or certified program that provides care for people who are terminally ill and for their families. Hospice care can be provided at home, in a hospice or other freestanding facility or within a hospital. Hospice care emphasizes the management of pain and discomfort and addresses the physical, spiritual, emotional, psycho-logical, financial, and legal needs of the patient and his or her family.

Respite Care provides a temporary break for caregivers. Patients spend time in programs such as adult daycare or in week-long or month-long stays in a care facility.



Resources

Volunteers Volunteers give thousands of hours

each year to our hospital to enhance the care of our patients and their families. They provide support throughout the hospital, including staffing the information desk, delivering mail and flowers, operating the gift shop and escorting patients.

Hospital Resources Social WorkSocial workers are available upon request to assist you with life transition issues, coping skills, and/or stress management. Social workers are consulted for drug/alcohol and behavioral crises.

Support GroupsPhoenixville Hospital offers a variety of free patient and caregiver Support Groups for the members of our com-munity. Please call 610-983-1288 for information on how to register.n Adult Cancer n Breast Cancern Caregivers n Diabetes n Evening Caregiver n Parkinson’s n Smoking Cessation

Caregiver Resourceswww.aoa.govCaregiver resources from the Adminis-tration on Aging

www.caregiving.comOnline support groups and articles on caregiving

Children of Aging Parents800-227-7294

www.caps4caregivers.orgInformation, referrals and support for caregivers of the elderly andchronically ill

Eldercare Locator800-677-1116www.eldercare.govHelp with locating aging services throughout the U.S.

800-MEDICAREwww.medicare.govOfficial U.S. government site for people with Medicare

National Alliance for Caregivingwww.caregiving.orgSupport for family caregivers and the professionals who serve them

National Family Caregivers Association800-896-3650www.nfcacares.orgSupport for caregivers of chronically ill, aged, or disabled loved ones

Analgesics Percocet (acetaminophen/ Avoid drinking alcohol; take oxycodone) on empty stomach (1 hour Tylenol #3 (acetaminophen/ before or 2 hours after a meal) codeine) for best absorption.

Anti- Cordarone, Pacerone Avoid eating grapefruits arrhythmics (amiodarone) and drinking grapefruit juice.

Antibiotics Ampicillin Take on empty stomach for best Penicillin absorption. Cipro (ciprofloxacin) Avoid iron-containing foods and Doxycycline calcium-rich dairy products for Tetracycline best absorption. Flagyl, Metrogel Avoid alcohol. Take with food (metronidazole) to prevent stomach upset; take probiotics (yogurt or supplements) to prevent diarrhea.

Anti- Coumadin (warfarin) Avoid sudden increase or decrease coagulants of foods rich in Vitamin K (green leafy vegetables, avocados, soybeans, green tea, bacon, butter, cheese) as well as vitamins and supplements that contain Vitamin K. Check with your doctor for complete list. Limit alcohol and cranberry and grapefruit juices.

DRUG CLASS RX MEDICATION COMMENTS

Watch What You Eat

Did you know that the foods you eat can affect the medicines you take? In fact, eat-ing or drinking certain foods can cause your body to absorb medicine slower or faster. That can make medicine less effective or cause troubling side effects.

The following chart lists some common drug/food interactions, but is not meant to be all-inclusive. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any potential interactions with food, supplements, or other drugs before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications.

This chart will help you steer clear of side effects that can be caused by pairing certain foods and medications.

RICHARD M. SHERMAN 1928–

A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.


Anti- BuSpar (buspirone) Avoid eating large amounts of depressants grapefruits and drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice. Avoid drinking alcohol. Abilify (aripiprazole) Avoid drinking alcohol; avoid use Paxil (paroxetine) of nicotine. Prozac (fluoxetine) Wellbutrin, Zyban (bupropion) Zoloft (sertraline)

Anti-seizure Dilantin (Phenytoin) Take on empty stomach for best absorption. Do not take calcium products within 2 hours of taking medicine.

Carbatrol, Tegretol Avoid regularly eating grapefruits (carbamazepine) and drinking grapefruit juice.

Depakote (divalproex sodium) Avoid drinking alcohol. Gabitril (tiagabine) Lamictal (lamotrigine) Lyrica (pregabalin) Topamax (topiramate) Zarontin (ethosuximide)

Cholesterol Lipitor (atorvastatin) Avoid eating large amounts of grape- Mevacor (lovastatin) fruits and drinking large amounts of Zocor (simvastatin) grapefruit juice (greater than 1 quart per day). Do not eat oat bran within 2–4 hours of taking medicine.

Diabetes DiaBeta (glyburide) Avoid alcohol. If diabetes is welldrugs Glucophage (metformin) controlled, limit intake to 1–2 Glucotrol (glipizide) drinks daily, consumed with a meal.

Gastro- Reglan (metoclopramide) Avoid or limit alcohol. Take 30 intestinal drugs minutes before meals. Nexium (esomeprazole) Take at least 1 hour before meals.

Tagamet (cimetidine) Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Gout Colchicine Avoid eating grapefruits medications* and drinking grapefruit juice. Zyloprim (allopurinol)

High blood ACE Inhibitors pressure Monopril (fosinopril) Avoid salt substitutes and foods Prinivil, Zestril (lisinopril) high in potassium (almonds, Vasotec (enalapril) avocados, bananas, cantaloupe, kidney beans, oranges/orange juice, potatoes w/skin, spinach, tomato juice).



Watch What You Eat continued

High blood Calcium Channel Blockers pressure cont. Calan (verapamil) Avoid drinking Seville (sour) orange Cardizem (diltiazem) juice, eating grapefruits, and drinking Norvasc (amlodipine besylate) grapefruit juice. Plendil (felodipine) Procardia (nifedipine) Sular (nisoldipine) Vascor (bepridil)

Beta Blockers Tenormin (atenolol) Avoid drinking orange juice. Do not take calcium products within 2 hours of taking medicine. Lopressor (metoprolol) Do not take calcium products within 2 hours of taking medicine. Diuretics Aldactone (spironolactone) Dyrenium (triamterine) Midamor (amiloride)

Immuno- Neoral, Sandimmune Avoid drinking grapefruit suppressant (cyclosporine), juice or eating grapefruits. drugs Prograf (tacrolimus) Avoid salt substitutes and foods Rapamune (sirolimus) high in potassium (almonds, avocados, bananas, cantaloupe, kidney beans, oranges and orange juice, potatoes w/skin, spinach, tomato juice).

MAO Inhibitors Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar Avoid foods high in tyramine: aged (selegiline) and processed cheeses, sour cream, Marplan (Isocarboxazid) red wines, beer, bologna, pepperoni, Nardil (phenelzine) salami, pickled herring, liver, raisins, Parnate (tranylcypromine) bananas, avocados, soy sauce, fava beans, yeast extracts. Check with your doctor for complete list. Avoid alcohol and large quantities of caffeine (cola, tea, coffee, chocolate).

Respiratory Slo-bid, Theo Dur Avoid charcoal-broiled meats,drugs (theophylline) caffeinated foods and beverages, and grapefruits/grapefruit juice.

Thyroid Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid Avoid eating walnuts, soybeanhormones (levothyroxine) flour, dietary fiber, calcium products, and calcium-fortified juices within 4 hours of taking medicine.




At the Hospital and Clinicn Share with your doctor a list of your current

medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. A medications card is attached to this brochure.

n Make sure the doctor or nurse checks your wristband and asks your name before giving you medicine.

n Ask your doctor or nurse how a new medicine will help. Ask for written information about it, including its brand and generic names.

n Ask your doctor or nurse about the possible side effects of your medicines.

n Don’t be afraid to tell the nurse or the doctor if you think you are about to get the wrong medicine.

n Know what time you normally get a medicine. If you don’t get it then, tell your nurse or doctor.

n Tell your nurse or doctor if you don’t feel well after receiving a medicine. If you think you are having a reaction or experiencing side effects, ask for help immediately.

n If you’re not feeling well enough to ask questions about your medicines, ask a relative or a friend to ask questions for you and to help make sure you get and take the right medicines.

n If you receive intravenous (IV) fluids, read the contents labels on the bags of IV fluids. If you’re not well enough to do this, ask a relative or friend to do it.

n If you are given an IV, ask the nurse how long it should take for the liquid to run out.

n Ask for a list of your medications. This lists all of the drugs you should be taking. Check it for accuracy. If you’re not well enough to do this, ask a friend or relative to help.

n Before you leave the hospital or clinic, make sure that you understand all of the instructions for the medicines you will need to keep taking, and ask any questions you have about any of your medicines.

Here are some basic steps you can take to help prevent a medication mistake from happening to you or your loved ones.

Medicine Safety Tips & Information Log

My MedicationsImmanuel Kant 1724-1804

Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.

Keep track of all medications you are prescribed while in the hospital.

Bring your medication list to every doctor visit!

When you get home add all other medications—including over-the-counter, vitamins and herbs—to this list. Update your list as needed.

medication: _____________________________________________________________(include brand and generic names)

Dose: take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m.Reason for taking: _________________________________________________________Prescribed by: _____________________________ Date started:_____________________Pharmacy name and number: ___________________________ /_____________________




Dose: take _______ times per day at (circle all that apply): 12–1 a.m. / 2–3 a.m. / 4–5 a.m. / 6–7 a.m. 8–9 a.m. / 10–11 a.m. / 12–1 p.m. / 2–3 p.m. / 4–5 p.m. / 6–7 p.m. / 8–9 p.m. / 10–11 p.m.Reason for taking:_________________________________________________________Prescribed by: _____________________________ Date started:_____________________Pharmacy name and number: ___________________________ /_____________________




140 Nutt Road Phoenixville, PA 19460 610-983-1000 · Comfort and Quietness 11 Fall Precautions 11...

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