Questions for Your Healthcare Provider About Hospital Infections

Protect Yourself Before Hospital Stay During Your Hospital Stay How To Communicate With Your Healthcare Provider Questions To Ask Your Healthcare Provider
	It's essential to have free and open communication between you and your healthcare provider. Asking questions will help you know what to expect and what you can do, and help your doctor understand your needs. Below are a number of questions you may consider asking your healthcare provider about hospital infections. What kinds of guidelines does the hospital follow to prevent hospital infections? What are the hospital's policies in regard to hand washing? How does the hospital staff ensure that all medical devices are properly cleaned and sterilized before use? What will the doctors and nursing staff do to monitor your health during your stay to make sure you haven't developed a hospital infection? What signs and symptoms should you look for or be aware of to help identify a hospital infection? If you are having surgery, ask your surgeon about the chance of getting an infection, if it has happened to his or her patients before, and what will be done to make sure you don't get an infection. Should you be kept warm during surgery? (For some types of surgery, keeping patients warm can help reduce the risk of infection. Special blankets, hats, and warmed IV liquids can be used to help keep you warm during a surgical procedure.) Should you be tested for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at least one week before you are admitted into the hospital?	There are important steps you can take both before and during your hospital stay to protect yourself from hospital infections. The Pennsylvania Department of Health has published a report on the number and rate of hospital acquired infections in the state.