Our commitment to safety
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We strive to be proactive in identifying and preventing risks. At Osler, we are committed to:
- spotting risks before they happen
- reporting any incidents or risks
- preventing future incidents
- tracking hospital trends and data to find ways to improve
- participating in national programs to improve care
- measuring our performance against national standards
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You can help
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Patients and families also have a role to play in keeping our environment safe. Here's how you can help:
- speak to your health care providers if you have any questions or concerns.
- do not smoke on hospital property.
- do not wear perfume, cologne or aftershave when visiting the hospital. Some people have severe reactions to scented products.
- do not bring latex balloons and products into the hospital. Some people have severe latex allergies.
- leave your jewellery, credit cards, cash and valuables at home (please note the hospital is not responsible for lost or stolen items).
- turn off cell phones in patient care areas. Cell phone frequencies may affect the signals of some machines at close range.
- get to know your health care team. All hospital staff, physicians and volunteers wear photo ID. Contact security if you are concerned about the identity of your care provider or a visitor.
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Before you arrive
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Visiting patients
Do not visit patients if you have:
- any symptom of a virus or the flu
- a fever
- a cough
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If you are feeling unwell, do not visit patients in the hospital. Call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or see your family physician or closest Emergency Department for advice.
Coming as a patient
If you are coming to the hospital as a patient:
- bring your eyeglasses and any other aids, such as walkers
- wear non-slip footwear
- bring a complete list of your medications, or bring your medications with you to show your care providers
- tell your care providers if you have ever had any allergic or bad reaction to food or medication (e.g. itchiness, hives, rashes, swollen tongue etc.)
- bring an interpreter with you if you do not speak English (hospital interpretation services are also available, if needed)
- bring your health card
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Safety tips
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Hand hygiene
Regular handwashing helps prevent the spread of infection to patients, you, your family and others.
Alcohol handwash stations are located at the hospital's main entrance, the entrance to each patient unit and other places throughout the hospital. Wash your hands when you come into the hospital, before and after contact with a patient, before and after eating and after using the washroom.
Medication safety
- Keep a list of all your medications. Know their names and why you are taking them.
- Understand the side effects and note any allergies or bad reactions to your medications.
- Ask your health care provider if you have any questions about your medications.
Falls prevention
- If you need assistance walking or getting out of bed, ask your nurse for help.
- When in bed, make sure your call bell, phone and eyeglasses are within easy reach.
- Wear non-slip footwear.
Tell a member of your health care team if you:
- are feeling weak or dizzy
- have trouble maintaining balance
- have trouble getting out of a chair
Patient identification
- Wear your patient identification (ID) bracelet. Check that the information on the bracelet is correct.
- Confirm you are getting the right procedure by the right care provider.
- Before you receive any treatment or medication, confirm your name and date of birth with the care provider.
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Be informed
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Ask questions
Ask your doctor to explain your condition so that you can understand. Ask for details about procedures:
- Why do I need this test?
- What will it involve?
- What if I do not have this treatment?
- Have there been any changes to my medication?
Talk about your concerns
Talk to us:
- about all medications you are taking, including herbal supplements and vitamins
- about any chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or allergies
- if you had any reactions to medications
Listen to the answers:
- Listen to what the doctor is telling you. Bring someone to listen with you and write down the important information.
- Listen and go over consent forms for treatment with a family member. Ask your doctor to answer any questions you have before signing.
- Listen carefully and follow all treatment and discharge instructions.
Speak up!
- Speak up if you have questions, concerns or don't understand. You have a right to know.
- Participate in your plan of care
- Educate yourself about your illness or injury and any tests and procedure
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to be your advocate
- Know about your treatment plan, care options and risks and benefits so you can make informed decisions about your care
- Understand any instructions you are given for self care
- Prepare for your discharge by knowing what your next steps are, any possible complications, follow-up appointments, community resources and contact information for further questions or concerns
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Infant and child safety
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Having a child in the hospital can be stressful. Rest assured that your child and family's wellbeing is our top priority.
Here are a few additional tips to help keep your child safe:
- notify your child's nurse if you are leaving the room
- do not pass your infant or child to anyone without a hospital identification badge
- keep your child's crib or bedside railing up at all times when your child is in the crib or bed
- never allow your child to walk around without footwear. Shoes or slippers are suitable.
- keep hot drinks covered with a lid at all times
For additional privacy and security, your child's patient information will only be given to parents or legal guardians.
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