Susquehanna Health, along with many hospitals throughout the country, developed major initiatives to prevent infections and improve patient safety.

To protect our patients from MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), we have established an initiative that includes checking these patients upon admission to our ICU or CVSU to see if they have, or carry, MRSA. If they do, we employ universal contact precautions to protect our staff and other patients in the hospital.

As a patient at Susquehanna Health, please know that you too can play an active role in your healthcare. Research shows that patients who take part in decisions about their own healthcare are more likely to get better faster. We offer the following guidelines to help you and your family members play an important role in your care.

• Speak up if you have questions or concerns. If you still don’t understand, ask again. It’s your body and you have a right to know.
• Pay attention to the care you get. Always make sure you are getting the right treatments and medicines by the right healthcare professionals. Don’t assume anything.
• Educate yourself about your illness. Learn about the medical tests you get and your treatment plan.
• Ask a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate.
• Know what medicines you take and why you take them. Medicine errors are the most common healthcare mistakes.
• Use a hospital, clinic, surgery center or other type of healthcare organization that has been carefully checked out. The Joint Commission visits hospitals to see if they are meeting the Joint Commission’s quality standards.
• Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of the healthcare team.

Source: The Joint Commission

View Patient Safety Video (Safety Starts With You)
Read Patient Safety Brochure
Our Preventing Falls Initiative
Patient Rights And Responsibilities
Patient Self Determination Act
SH Notices Of Privacy Practices
Become An Active Participant In Your Healthcare
Interpretation And Translation Services
Infection Control