Steps to take to be the best advocate for your loved one

It can be frustrating when you communicate with the medical staff your concerns regarding your loved one and for whatever reason they do not take the necessary steps to help you find out what is going on. For example, your loved one is experiencing "unusual symptoms" and you are trying to find out what is the cause. It could be unexplained pain, muscle aches, extremely loose stools, or a myriad of other things. You talk with the specialist to find out what to do and they may listen but the issue is still not resolved. There is no plan of care in place and you are left feeling frustrated.

Here are some steps to take to help you get the answers you need -

Stay calm - It is hard to talk with someone who is visibly angry and upset. Typically, it is also difficult to make decisions in the best interest of your loved one when you are focused on the anger, anxiety, and frustrations of the moment. If you find yourself ready to explode take a moment to step back, take a deep breath, and gather your thoughts.

Keep a time line of what your concern is - When did the problem start, how long has it been going on, who you have talked with, and options that you have already tried. When you are talking with the doctor about these things give them the highlights of what has been going on since your last visit. Give them a copy of the time line that you have put together for them to put in their files. If possible try to keep this to one page.

Bring someone with you - It is always good to bring someone with you to your doctor's appointment who can help you advocate your concerns. You can bring a spouse, family relative, friend, or even the home health nurse with you who can share their perspective and concerns regarding the problems.

Talk with another doctor - If you are taking care of a loved one who has critical care needs, multiple doctors to follow, and/or you are an inpatient or outpatient regular at the hospital then talk with one of your doctors who you have a good relationship with. Ask them for advice, guidance, and direction on what you should do.

Hospital patient advocate - Sometimes the hospital will have a patient advocate on staff that you can turn to and talk with regarding your concerns. They can then step in and advocate on your behalf.

Do not be afraid to speak up if you have concerns. Things can be missed or overlooked by the doctor, nurses, or medical staff. If things remain unresolved then you have the right to find another doctor who will address your concerns and help you come up with a plan of care that is best for you and your loved one.

Penny Hanlon
http://www.cominghomeguide.com/