Patient safety. It takes a team.

By John C. Kagan, M.D.

Patient safety is a top priority and everyone, including patients, has a role in ensuring that a patient’s medical care is safe and effective.

That’s why the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) has launched a new public service campaign, “Patient Safety: It Takes a Team,” that highlights the important role patients and their loved ones have in ensuring safe surgeries.

“Patient Safety: It Takes a Team” promotes the cooperation between doctor, patient, nurses, and hospital staff that is necessary for safe, successful surgeries. There are many things patients can do to become active members of their healthcare teams, like:
• Ask questions — Be sure to speak up when you need more information from your doctor.

• Involve a friend or family member in your care.

• Be able to discuss your medical history — such as past surgeries, major illnesses, and family history of medical problems.

• Keep a complete, accurate list of all your medications, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.

• Tell your healthcare team about your allergies and any past reactions to anesthesia or medications.

• Ask your doctor for educational resources to help you better understand your condition and treatment options.

Dr. Kagan and his team encourage open, honest communication to help patients become better informed about their diagnosis, treatment and the expected results.

The more information you have about your health care, the better equipped you are to make decisions that are best for you.

• Always be honest and complete when talking with your doctor. Information that seems incidental to you may be important to your doctor and medical team.

• Ask questions. It is common to forget some things we want to talk about with our doctors. The best thing to do is make a list.

• Speak up when you do not understand. If there is a language difference, or if you cannot hear or see very well, make sure you tell your doctor and medical team.
• Know the best way to reach your doctor after hours, such as by phone or e-mail.

Involve a trusted family member or friend in your care. Health care is complicated, particularly if your doctor recommends surgery. A friend or family member can:
• Come with you to doctor appointments

• Stay with you in the hospital

• Help you to remember healthcare instructions

• Ask additional questions

Your visit with an orthopaedic surgeon is an important meeting that can be most effective if you plan ahead. It is important that you give your doctor the information he or she needs and that you understand what your doctor is recommending.

• Come prepared. Write down your concerns about your condition, such as pain or loss of mobility. Make accurate written lists, including:
o    All your medications, including all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and nutritional herbal and vitamin supplements
o Any surgeries you have had and when they occurred
o Any family medical problems
o    All of your allergies (rash, hives, swelling) or unexpected reactions (nausea, drowsiness) to medications

• Take notes during your appointment and ask questions if you do not understand something, such as the reason for your doctor’s recommendations, or the instructions for taking medication.

• Ask your doctor for handouts or brochures so that you can learn about your condition and treatment options. Your doctor may also refer you to a website for more information.

You are the center of your healthcare team. Work with your doctor and other healthcare professionals, and participate in all decisions about your treatment. This includes understanding your diagnosis, surgical and non-surgical treatment options and if surgery is planned, how long the surgery will last as well as recovery.

Dr. John Kagan has more than 30 years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon treating patients in Southwest Florida.  He specializes in treating patients with knee, shoulder and hip pain, as well as general orthopedics and hand surgery.  For more information go to www.kaganortho.com or call 239-936-6778.