Pages

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Advocating for a Hospital Patient

Great article in the Wall Street Journal this morning about how to be a good advocate for someone in the hospital. Concrete suggestions.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Because of my stepfather's illness, we have really learned that the culture at hospitals has totally changed in exactly the way that article stated -- that family members are not considered "visitors." We've never been asked to leave anywhere. And always feel completely welcome -- and are actually encouraged to speak up.

I have noticed, though, that my stepfather is the exception in that he has family members with him at all times. Most people don't. And I'm not exaggerating at all. Most are all alone. That just kills me because I know how afraid they are.

People needs to be encouraged to stay with their loved ones -- not only to calm them and keep them company but to be an advocate the way that article states.

Anonymous said...

I agree. My mother was in the hospital last year and I was with her much of the time. The one time I had to leave her I found upon my return that she wasn't receiving adequate care and communication broke down completely with staff.