Page 40 - Hospitalists - Risks When You're the Doctor in the House (Part Two)

SVMIC Hospitalists - Risks When You’re the Doctor in the House

Clearly communicate to patients and document the rationale

for starting new medications, as well as any and all significant
risks, when a new medication is initiated.

Clearly communicate to the patient the importance of keeping

a follow-up appointment with the primary care physician, and
document this communication in the medical record.

Give the patient a copy of any and all instructions.

Always remember:

• Communicate in a clear, concise fashion with the patient,
patient’s family, colleagues, and nursing staff.

• Take more time with the patient at admission or early in the
hospitalization.

• Be professional and courteous to staff, colleagues, and

patient family members.

• If you are advised of a patient’s

clinical status change, see the patient
firsthand.

• Allow adequate time to provide individual care to the
patient.

• Document, document, document

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