Speak Up

S Speak up if you have questions or concerns, and if you don’t understand, ask again. You have a right to know.

P Pay attention to the care you are receiving. Be an active participant.

E Educate yourself about your diagnosis, the medical test you are undergoing, and your treatment plan.

A Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.

K Know what medications you take and why you take them. Ask questions if something is unfamiliar.

U Use your call light when any alarm has gone off in your room. Also, use your call light any time you need help or want to get out of bed.

P Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the healthcare team.

If you have concerns about your care, please call the patient safety hotline at 805/652-5099 and leave a message. Portions of this have been reprinted by permission of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations