l. The patient should be informed of the hospital rules and regulations, which
apply to him as a patient.
NOTE:
For a complete listing of patients' rights and responsibilities, see the
Accreditation Manual for Hospitals (AMH), which is updated annually and can
be found at most major medical facilities.
3-3.
REGULATIONS AND LOCAL POLICY
a. There are a number of different ways that you can handle any situation, and
there is not always one correct action to take. In some instances, you must just use
your common sense. It is important, however, to become familiar with regulations and
local policy. Policies may vary depending upon your location and/or your role. One
example is the handling of patients' valuables. How can you safeguard a patient's
valuables? What do you say if a patient wants to give you a few dollars to get him
something from the hospital gift shop? Can you accept a small gift from a patient who
wants to show his gratitude? Become familiar enough with the local regulations or
policies to handle such situations before you are confronted with them.
b. The extent of information or advice you should provide to a patient depends
upon your MOS. A physician should respond to questions dealing with diagnosis and
treatment. However, you can always respond in some way to a health care receiver's
request for information. If you are not authorized to answer his questions directly, you
can find someone who can, direct the patient to someone who can, or get the
information for him.
c. Again, be familiar with the local policy on dealing with information on
treatment and diagnosis.
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