At Penobscot Valley Hospital (PVH), patient safety is at the heart of everything we do. As we observe Patient Safety Awareness Week, we reaffirm our commitment to providing high-quality, safe, and compassionate care for our community.
What is Patient Safety Awareness Week?
Patient Safety Awareness Week, observed annually in March, is a nationwide initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of safety in healthcare and recognizing the efforts of medical professionals to reduce errors, improve protocols, and foster a culture of patient-centered care. At PVH, we take this opportunity to educate patients, families, and staff on best practices to enhance safety and quality in our facility.
PVH’s Commitment to Safety
Patient safety is a shared responsibility between healthcare providers and patients. At PVH, we continuously implement and refine safety measures, including:
- Infection Prevention: Rigorous hand hygiene, sterilization procedures, and infection control policies to minimize risks.
- Medication Safety: Double-checking prescriptions, educating patients on proper medication use, and preventing adverse drug interactions.
- Fall Prevention: Assessing patients’ mobility, using assistive devices, and implementing fall-reduction strategies.
- Clear Communication: Encouraging open dialogue between patients and providers to ensure understanding and reduce misunderstandings.
- Continuous Training: Ongoing education for our staff to stay updated on best practices and safety protocols.
How Patients Can Help
Patient safety is a partnership. Here are some ways you can play an active role in your care:
- Ask Questions: Never hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about your treatment, medications, or procedures.
- Keep a Medication List: Maintain an up-to-date list of all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
- Be Involved in Your Care: Understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and follow-up care instructions.
- Speak Up: If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and communicate your concerns with your care team.
Celebrating Our Healthcare Team
During Patient Safety Awareness Week, we recognize and appreciate our dedicated healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to ensure our patients receive the safest and most effective care. From nurses and physicians to technicians and support staff, every team member plays a crucial role in maintaining a culture of safety at PVH.
At Penobscot Valley Hospital, patient safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a promise. As we celebrate this important week, we invite our community to join us in fostering a safer healthcare environment for all. Together, we can make a difference.
For more information about our safety initiatives, visit our website at www.pvhme.org . Be sure to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay up to date on all our latest information.