Patient Education Patient Guide | Page 8

Preventing Infections Hand washing is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infections. Preventing infection involves patients, visitors and staff. Please make sure to:   Wash your hands with soap or use a hand sanitizer often.   Remind staff and visitors to wash their hands when they enter and leave your room. Preventing Skin Problems Being in the hospital may put you at risk for skin problems on your hips, tailbone and heels where pressure from your body weight can reduce the flow of blood. Things you can do to prevent skin problems are:   Change your position in bed often and do not lie on your back all of the time.   Sit in a chair or walk several times a day if you are allowed.   Eat a well-balanced diet.   Let your nurse know if any areas of your skin are tender, red or sore. Medication Safety A number of precautions are in place to ensure your safety related to medications. Your nurse or medication historian will:  you about any allergies you have to medications. Ask you about all the medicines you are taking at home.  Ask   Ask that you do not take any medications that you bring in from home. Ask whether you are taking any over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, weight products, herbal supplements/teas or home remedies. Each time you receive medication, your nurse will:  Ask your name and birthdate.  Scan or check your wristband.  Scan or check each medication. 7