<html> <head> <meta charset="UTF-8"/> <meta name="tikaGenerated" content="true"/> <meta name="date" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="xmp:CreatorTool" content="QuarkXPress(tm) 6.5"/> <meta name="meta:creation-date" content="2012-05-17T12:58:10Z"/> <meta name="XPressPrivate" content="%%DocumentProcessColors: Cyan Magenta Yellow Black%%DocumentCustomColors: (PANTONE Cool Gray 7 C)%%+ (PANTONE 286 C)%%+ (PANTONE 287 C)%%+ (PANTONE 273 C)%%+ (PANTONE Process Yellow C)%%+ (PANTONE 1235 C)%%CMYKCustomColor: 0 0 0 .37 (PANTONE Cool Gray 7 C)%%+ 1 .66 0 .02 (PANTONE 286 C)%%+ 1 .68 0 .12 (PANTONE 287 C)%%+ 1 .96 0 .08 (PANTONE 273 C)%%+ 0 0 1 0 (PANTONE Process Yellow C)%%+ 0 .29 .91 0 (PANTONE 1235 C)%%EndComments"/> <meta name="created" content="Thu May 17 22:28:10 ACST 2012"/> <meta name="xmpTPg:NPages" content="24"/> <meta name="Creation-Date" content="2012-05-17T12:58:10Z"/> <meta name="dcterms:created" content="2012-05-17T12:58:10Z"/> <meta name="Last-Modified" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="dcterms:modified" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="Last-Save-Date" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="meta:save-date" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="producer" content="QuarkXPress(tm) 6.5"/> <meta name="modified" content="2012-05-17T03:17:48Z"/> <meta name="Content-Type" content="application/pdf"/> </head> <body> <pre> 2012 Edition Country Health SA Local Health Network Port Augusta Hospital & Regional Health Services 2 PATIENT INFORMATION WELCOME The staff of the Port Augusta Hospital and Regional Health Services aim to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Your treatment and care always remains the most important part of our Health Service s operation. WE ARE COMMITTED TO QUALITY CARE Our aim is to deliver the highest possible standard of care to all our patients. If you have a suggestion that you feel would contribute to you or patient s wellbeing or comfort please use our suggestion boxes placed throughout the hospital or write to: Director Port Augusta Hospital & Regional Health Services 71 Hospital Road PORT AUGUSTA SA 5700 Disclaimer The hospital is grateful to advertisers who made this handbook possible. However, an advertisement in this handbook does not imply an endorsement by the hospital. VISION / MISSION STATEMENT Our Future is your Health and Wellbeing The Port Augusta Hospital & Regional Health Services will value and work with individuals and community groups to provide positive health outcomes for all. ACCOUNTS/ HOSPITAL FEES/ ACCOMMODATION Fees are charged in accordance with the gazetted rates for patients admitted to Public Hospital as a PRIVATE PATIENT. No fees apply for patients admitted to Hospital as a PUBLIC PATIENT. Money received from Private Patient Revenues is retained by Port Augusta Hospital and Regional Health Services and is used to further develop the range and standard of patient service. Please ensure that you have adequate PRIVATE Hospital cover (not extras) if you elect to be admitted to Hospital as a PRIVATE PATIENT. On admission you will be requested to complete a Private Patient Hospital Claim Form which will be forwarded directly to your Health Fund with the Hospital Account for Accommodation. With PRIVATE PATIENT Hospital Accommodation, no guarantee can be given that a patient will be placed in a single room. Every attempt will be made to place you in a single room or as the only patient in a two bed bay. However, this may not be possible due to unforseen patient activity. As a PRIVATE PATIENT you will receive a complimentary toiletry pack and dried fruit basket/pack, daily Advertiser, choice of wine with lunch and dinner, and a menu choice of mid meal snacks and free television hire. ABORIGINAL SERVICES Assistance and support can be provided to Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people who need an interpreter for medical, transport & social issues. Services of a Traditional Healer can be provided on request. Ask the Nurse to contact the Manager Aboriginal Health for any of these services. A member from the Aboriginal Health team is available for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander patients who may require advice or assistance. Please let your Nurse know and they will contact the Project Officer of the Port Augusta Hospital s Step Down Unit. All Hospital ward areas including Accident and Emergency as well as the Step Down Unit and Administration buildings are culturally blessed/cleansed at least once per year. ADMISSION PROCEDURES Please present yourself to the Admission Desk. This is located inside the Main Entrance of the Hospital. The admission process for Day Surgery procedures is through the Day Surgery Unit. Once you arrive at the Admission Desk or the Day Surgery Unit, the staff will check your personal details and complete your admission paperwork. You will then be escorted to the ward by a staff member and shown to your room or provided with directions to the Day Surgery waiting area. AGGRESSION & VIOLENCE In the interest and well being of clients and staff, abuse of verbal or physical nature will not be tolerated. The Hospital Security Orderlies and/or SAPOL will be called in the event of an aggressive or violent situation. AIR CONDITIONING The temperature in the building is kept at a constant level. We ask that you do not adjust the Room Temperature Controls. 3 PATIENT INFORMATION 4 PATIENT INFORMATION ALCOHOL AND DRUGS ALCOHOLIC DRINKS AND OTHER NON- PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ARE NOT TO BE BROUGHT INTO THE HOSPITAL BY PATIENTS OR VISITORS. If you have prescription drugs with you, give them to your Nurse who will ensure that they are locked in the top drawer of your locker during your hospitalisation. These will be reviewed by the Pharmacist during your admission and you can ask them any questions you have regarding their use. Pharmacy supply most of the medications you will need while in hospital - if your medication is not available through Pharmacy we will need to use your own medications. These will be returned to you on discharge from hospital once the Pharmacist has reviewed them and explained any changes. AUXILIARY SERVICES The Hospital Auxiliary consists of a dedicated group of volunteers who fundraise to provide additional items for the hospital. There is always a need for extra help in their initiative and they are happy to welcome new members to their volunteer service. Staff will provide a Contact Name if you are interested in assisting the Auxiliary. BEING A PATIENT Sometimes it is difficult to get used to sharing a room, but you will find that staff will do their best to allow you as much privacy as possible. Your actions affect other patients so please respect their privacy and keep noise to a minimum. Doctors conduct daily rounds. Should you need to leave the ward at any time, please tell your Nurse before you go. BOARDING FACILITIES (for Paediatric and Maternity clients) Boarding facilities are available and can be arranged with ward staff. Partners are able to use the Family room after delivery for one night only and care givers for paediatric clients are encouraged to stay throughout the hospital stay. Certain restrictions may be necessary, e.g. Boarders may be requested to leave the room, so that the Nurse/Doctor can effectively carry out treatment and are also asked to wear appropriate covered up clothing whilst staying in the ward area. One patient is allowed one boarder only. Meals can be provided for a small fee and if you have a concession card meals are free. All boarders are supplied breakfast every morning. Consideration for boarding is given in the event of breast fed babies. CANCELLATION OF ADMISSION Should your admission be postponed due to unforseen circumstances, we ask for your understanding and sincerely regret any inconvenience caused. CHAPEL A non-denominational chapel is available for Patient/Staff/Visitor use. Staff can direct you to its location. 5 PATIENT INFORMATION CHILDREN IN HOSPITAL Most small children miss their families so we encourage immediate family to spend as much time with the patient as possible and also to room in with their child. Parents/Carers can play a positive role during their child s stay in hospital by assisting the team with various routines and by just being with their child. Fold up beds are available if Parents/Carers wish to stay overnight. Certain restrictions may be necessary so that the nurse can effectively carry out treatment prescribed by the doctor. Cooperation by Parents/Carers is appreciated in these circumstances. With the changes in Paediatric security, you will be asked to sign in your child and out again on discharge. Secure rooms are used in the ward area and visitors are asked to check with the nursing staff before attempting to visit any children in the ward area. CLERGY Ministers of Religion visit the hospital on a regular basis. Patients are asked on admission if they wish to be visited by a Minister of a given denomination. The list of patients who have indicated their willingness to be visited would be provided to the visiting Clergies. The Clergy can be contacted at any time through the nursing staff on your ward. CONSUMER FEEDBACK SA Health and Country Health SA are committed to a consumer focussed approach to feedback as it provides us the opportunity to improve our processes and the standard of care we provide. If you would like to provide feedback about the service you received, you can: Complete a Consumer Feedback Brochure and place in one of the yellow suggestion boxes Speak to a staff member Contact the Consumer Feedback Coordinator, (08) 8648 5715 If you are unhappy with our response or would prefer to speak to an independent person, please contact either of the agencies below: The Manager, CHSA Consumer Feedback Country Health SA Adelaide Office Telephone: (08) 8226 6153 or email: CHSA@health.sa.gov.au The Health & Community Services Complaints Commissioner Telephone: 1800 232 007 www.hcscc.sa.gov.au Aged Care Complaints Investigation Scheme GPO Box 9848 ADELAIDE SA 5000 Telephone: 1800 550 552 CONSENT By coming to hospital you have implied agreement to general treatment which may be required for your condition. Certain procedures e.g. operations, administration of anaesthesia and certain diagnostic procedures require your specific consent in writing. Before you sign a consent form, the nature of the procedure will be explained to you, and it is important that you understand what is involved. You are entitled to ask for further explanation from your Doctor if you do not understand the procedure and its likely effects. 6 PATIENT INFORMATION DONATIONS No matter how small, donations and bequests are a very important part of hospital revenue and are tax deductible. They assist in the purchase of much needed equipment. DISCHARGE FROM THE HOSPITAL You should discuss with your doctor of the planned date of discharge. Patient discharges should occur before 11.00am. The discharge lounge may be used to allow for patients to vacate the bed before 11.00 am and sit comfortably to await transport, medications etc. The discharge lounge is located in the main foyer of the hospital. At the time of discharge please: Make sure you have your appointment card for any follow-up appointments that may be required. Make sure that you have supplies of medication which may have been ordered for you to take home. You may be required to collect medication from the Hospital Pharmacy. Make sure you have received instructions and understand the use of your medications. Pharmacy hours for collecting ordered medications are 8.45am to 5.00pm. Ask the Nursing Staff if you have any problems relating to your recovery. Arrangements can be made for Community Services as appropriate by the Nursing Staff making a referral prior to discharge. Collect any valuables. Discuss options for transport if required. Request information concerning the Step Down Unit if interim accommodation is required. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Not all items of electrical equipment owned by patients are safe when used in a hospital. Examples of electrical equipment which may be unsafe or dangerous include equipment which is in need of repair, equipment which causes interference to vital medical equipment or equipment fitted with a power cable which is too short for the available power points. Also dangerous are extension cables which have been incorrectly wired. Because of these possible dangers, personal electrical items / equipment are not permitted in the Port Augusta Hospital. FIRE/EMERGENCY PROCEDURES The Hospital schedules Fire and Safety checks regularly. Should the Emergency Alarms sound whilst you are on premises, remain where you are and await instructions from staff. HAIRDRESSING Private Hairdressers may visit patients in the hospital and these arrangements can be made. The patient is responsible for paying the appropriate fee to the Hairdresser. IDENTIFICATION BADGES For ease of identification and security, all staff display name badges. Please do not hesitate to ask staff or doctors who visit you their name and roles if they do not have their ID displayed. 7 PATIENT INFORMATION JUSTICE OF THE PEACE There are Justices of the Peace on staff in this Health Service. If you require the services of a Justice of the Peace, requests should be made to the Human Resources Unit via the nursing staff. KIOSK The Kiosk is situated in the main corridor leading directly off the Reception/Admission foyer. The Kiosk is open daily and provides hot/cold food, drinks, newspapers, magazines, gifts and toiletries for patients, staff and visitors. The Kiosk is not open on weekends or Public Holidays. LAUNDRY Please arrange with relatives or friends to attend to your laundry requirements as personal laundry facilities are not available. LEAVING HOSPITAL PREMISES You must remain within the hospital premises until you are discharged unless special arrangements have been made with your Doctor or ward nurse. Should you need to leave the ward for any reason please advise your ward nurse the approximate time of your return. For medical reasons, your Doctor may advise against leaving the hospital. MAIL Mail is delivered daily Monday to Friday to the wards. It is important that mail is clearly addressed. Stamps are available from the Kiosk. Any outgoing mail can be given to ward staff who will arrange for collection and posting. Any mail that arrives following your discharge from hospital will be forwarded to you. MEAL TIMES (approximate) Breakfast 8.00 am Morning Tea 10.00 am Lunch 12.15 pm Dinner 5.00 pm Supper 7.00 pm The Hospital menu has been formulated with a Dietitians involvement. On day of admission patients will receive a menu for the current and following day. Staff are available to assist you with your selection. MEDICAL CERTIFICATES Please ask your Doctor for any Certificate you require e.g. Employer, Centrelink, Social Services, Compensation etc. Do not wait until you are going home as your Doctor may not be available at that time. NEWSPAPERS Newspapers are delivered to the hospital kiosk daily and are available for purchase. Private patients will receive a newspaper free of charge. NOTIFICATION TO RELATIVES OR FRIENDS Relatives or friends are not routinely notified when treatments are to take place, except when an immediate or urgent treatment is to be performed. In that case every effort will be 8 PATIENT INFORMATION made to notify your next of kin or a contact person. When relatives and friends telephone the hospital to enquire about your condition only very general information is given, as we respect your privacy in this regard. PARKING AND TRANSPORT Public car parks are available on the Hospital grounds. There is no provision for you to park your vehicle in hospital grounds for the period of your hospitalisation. Patients should make their own arrangements for transport home on discharge. A Taxi Service is available - telephone no. 8642 2222 or 131008. Please ask Ward Staff for assistance. PATIENT IDENTIFICATION BANDS An important factor is the plastic bands placed on your wrist on admission or on ward, which must be worn during your stay in hospital. Please check to see that it is accurate. In some cases an additional band may be attached when you reach the ward. WILDFLOWER VOLUNTEERS This is a free service to patients in the Port Augusta Hospital where Wildflower Volunteers assist patients to make their stay in hospital a more positive experience. Volunteers can spend time with patients undertaking some of the following activities: Playing cards, games or puzzles for mental stimulation. Reading books, magazines or newspapers to patients with poor vision or physical impairment. Provide company by just sitting and talking to patients. Taking patients for short walks within hospital grounds. Pampering hair, nails, makeup, massaging hands or feet. Provide company to patients from out of town or those who may not have family or friends for support whilst in hospital. These are just a few of those available. For further information or to access the program please contact nursing staff. PATIENT ASSISTED TRANSPORT SCHEME (PATS) The PATS Scheme provides eligible patients with assistance for travel and accommodation expenses. Applicants are required to make a personal contribution of $30 towards travel expenses. Patients and escorts who are non-concession card holders are required to pay the first night of their accommodation. Financial assistance may be available for pensioners and Health Care Card holders. Appointments are essential. For more information contact - PATS Officer, Port Augusta Hospital. Phone: 8648 5623. 9 PATIENT INFORMATION PRIVACY AND YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION All South Australian Public Hospital and Health Units comply with the National Privacy Principles. These Principles regulate the way in which personal health information is collected, disclosed, stored and transferred. Personal health information includes your personal details, your health status and, your medical and social history. This information is kept in your medical record and many details are also stored electronically on computer systems. Personal health information is used or disclosed only for purposes directly related to our patients and clients health care and in ways that are consistent with their reasonable expectations. In the interest of the highest quality and continuity of care, this may include sharing information with other health care providers who comprise a patient s or client s health care team from time to time. The typical circumstances in which Port Augusta Hospital may use or disclose personal health information are as follows: Dealings with Your treating specialists Your general practitioner or referring doctor Your future health care team (following discharge from our hospital) Other service providers, such as IMVS, Perrett s Medical Imaging, Health Funds (including DVA where appropriate) Billing or debt recovery Hospital Committees - quality assurance and data management Public health/statutory reporting requirements Disease register notifications Accreditation processes Further details are available in the Hospital brochure on Privacy and Your Personal Information or from the Patient Services Manager on 8648 5507. QUESTIONS TO ASK? Ask the Doctor: Whether you need to return to the hospital s Outpatients Department or to attend your local doctor s surgery What tablets/medication you will need to take and any special instructions What activities you are allowed to undertake, including bathing, exercise etc. What foods you are allowed to eat. If your relatives wish to talk to your doctor, they should ask a nurse or the ward receptionist for an appointment. Ask the Nurse For: Any tablets/medication you brought with you to hospital. Your money and valuables if deposited with the hospital for safekeeping. Assistance with transport home - notify relatives, call taxi etc. SECURITY To ensure the safety of patients and staff, the hospital doors, allowing access to inpatient areas, are locked each night after visiting hours. They are kept locked on weekends and Public Holidays prior to and after visiting hours. 10 PATIENT INFORMATION All other doors are kept locked, but can be opened from inside. Cash and Valuables You are requested not to bring valuables or large amounts of cash into hospital. If this is unavoidable please arrange with nursing staff to have the cash or valuables deposited in the hospital safe for the duration of your stay. Remember to collect your valuables before you leave hospital. No responsibility will be accepted for valuables, cash or personal items retained by you during your stay. HEALTH WATCH SA Health Watch SA has been implemented throughout the organisation to provide a reporting and monitoring system for security issues such as vandalism, theft, loss and/or damage to property. If you wish to report any security issues please discuss this with a staff member who can assist you to complete a Health Watch Security Incident Form. SMOKE FREE POLICY Smoking is the largest preventable cause of illness and death in Australia. The Port Augusta Hospital is committed to improving and promoting health and therefore SA Health has introduced a Smoke Free Policy. From 31 May, 2010 smoking is prohibited at all South Australian public health services and hospitals including all buildings, structures, outdoor areas and car parks. Anyone smoking on SA Health premises will be informed of the policy and asked to extinguish their cigarette, or move outside the premises to smoke. Those who do not comply with this request will incur a $200 expiation notice. Some smokers can tolerate not smoking for a few days in hospital without too much trouble. Some may wish to use hospitalisation as an opportunity to try to quit smoking for good. Ideally it is best to quit smoking at least 8 weeks prior to surgery to reduce the risks caused by smoking; however, stopping smoking at any time will help. The sooner you stop smoking before hospitalisation the better. Hospital staff are available to assist you with information and assistance with encouragement and advice about how to manage withdrawal symptoms and deal with quitting. Stopping smoking can be difficult and much easier to do with some help. You may wish to call the Quitline. Quitline advisors can give as much information and assistance as needed to quit; this is a free 7 day service and includes a call-back service. Call Quitline 131848 or www.quitsa.org.au for assistance. STEP DOWN UNIT: The Step Down Unit provides short term accommodation for all patients from pastoral properties and remote communities serviced by the Port Augusta Hospital. This short term accommodation facility can be utilised whilst preparing to access hospital services and/or for patients discharged awaiting relevant out-patient services and transport back to their respective remote communities. This service is not available to residents of the local community. Speak to the Ward Staff for further information on this service. stocking all major brands BOORI COUNTRY COLLECTION SAFE N SOUND / STEELECRAFT KIDS LINE / VALCO / CNP BRANDS MOUNTAIN BUGGY / SILVER CROSS IGC / BABY LOVE FISHER PRICE / GROBAG KALOO / MAMA S & PAPA S & so much more Quality service in a relaxed and caring environment Specialising in beautiful quality natural fibre wigs, 100% human hair wigs, hair pieces & clip in hair extensions Extensive range of styles in all fashion colours Hospital rebates apply Wig Servicing Professional advice by qualified hairdressers Private comfortable fitting room (ESTABLISHED SINCE 1968) Shop 6 Adelaide Arcade, Adelaide Ph: 8223 5594 2nd shop in from Grenfell St. BONNIE WIGSBONNIE WIGS 43 Years Experience Pathology Pathology is the examination of blood, tissues and bodily fluids, to determine the state of your body. The IMVS Pathology laboratory based at the hospital conducts a specialised range of tests that can be ordered by your doctor. An onsite laboratory means faster analysis to assist medical staff in your healthcare. IMVS Pathology takes care of your pathology needs as an inpatient, and continues to support you when you leave hospital. After your hospital stay, your doctor may request further testing at an IMVS Pathology patient collection centre. Locations in the community and operating hours are on the back of the form from your doctor, or visit our website (www.imvs.sa.gov.au) for more information. 12 PATIENT INFORMATION STUDENTS As a part of its role, the hospital provides valuable practical experience for students of health care. These students are undergoing a training or refresher programme in one of the health care disciplines and may participate in your care during your stay in hospital. All students practice under the supervision of a qualified staff member. If you have any questions about the students involved in your care, please direct your enquiries to the nurse in charge of the ward. TELEPHONES Incoming Calls: Telephones are located in each room to receive calls. Telephone usage can also be purchased through the bedside entertainment packages. Outgoing Calls: If you wish to make a telephone call, public telephones are located in the hospital foyer. Alternatively, Phone Cards are available from your local newsagency prior to admission or from the hospital Kiosk during opening hours. These cards can be used to make STD calls from your bedside by dialling 9 . MOBILE PHONES Patients are requested to send or leave their mobile phones at home as their use can interference with medical equipment. TELEVISIONS The bedside entertainment services are provided by Telstra and give patients access to a number of different entertainment options on a pre-paid basis. SA Health has arranged for some exemptions to apply. The same entertainment package options are offered at all hospitals that provide bedside entertainment services. These include: Digital television and radio channels provided on the free-to-air stations A range of AUSTAR channels Movies on demand A dedicated phone line Filtered internet access Bedside computers are primarily for your benefit as a clinical device. Interruptions will occur when doctors, nurses, midwives or other health care professionals need to access clinical applications at the bedside, or to undertake assessment or treatment as part of your care. If you have paid for a movie, this will automatically be paused so you can return to it when the clinical session has ended. There is a television available free of charge in the patient lounge, located in the Banksia Ward. VISITING Two visitors only are allowed at the bedside of each patient at one time. Relatives and close friends of seriously ill patients are permitted at all hours in all wards. Visiting children must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult. At times and particularly during shift changes visitors may be asked to leave the area because of the patients need for treatment or review. The staff will inform visitors when the patient is free again. 13 PATIENT INFORMATION VISITING HOURS - ALL WARDS Everyday 3.00 pm - 8.00 pm. VISITING HOURS - CHILDREN Parent: Anytime with the Nurse s approval. Please do not bring sweets or food in for your Child(ren) without consulting the Nurse. COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICE The Community Health Service of the Port Augusta Hospital & Regional Health Service is comprised of multidisciplinary teams providing a comprehensive range of community and hospital based health services. Our professional staff have a range of skills to support individuals and the community to manage and improve their health. Services include individual assessment, one to one therapy, group work, community education, health promotion to prevent illness, in home care and community development. Our team provides a service to: Port Augusta and surrounds Quorn Hawker Leigh Creek and surrounds Oodnadatta Roxby Downs and surrounds Coober Pedy Fees may be charged for some services. Further information can be obtained when contacting the service. Healthy Children The Child Health program aims to support children and their families by providing a range of services that promotes healthy child development. Services include: Child Development Unit (CDU) Coordinated interagency services Early Years Parenting Centre (EYPC) a Communities for Children initiative Early intervention child and family support for delayed and disordered development Your Space youth health service Healthy Ageing Services provided aim to support people to live safe, healthy and independent lives in the community. Services include: In home support Community nursing (including wound management) Aids for everyday living Aged Care Assessment Restorative care (Transitional Care Packages) Palliative Care Continence support Staying Healthy A range of services are offered to prevent and manage illness. Services include: Breast care Women s Health Eat Well Be Active Community Foodies Respiratory services Rehabilitation Diabetes management Cardio Vascular support Quit smoking / tackling smoking Aboriginal family wellness Chronic Condition Self Management programs Call The Asthma Foundation. We provide asthma advice, education, training counselling and we are here to help you. We have: a telephone HelpLine a wide range of brochures on different aspects of asthma management a website with up-to-date and useful information a program of community education and training sessions 1800 645 130 CALL US SO WE CAN HELP YOU Do you have asthma? Do you know how to manage it, so that you can lead a full and active life? Do you want more information? Become a blood donor at your nearest Red Cross Blood Bank Corner Carlton Parade & Dartmouth Street, Port Augusta Corner Carlton Parade & Dartmouth Street, Port Augusta Telephone: 8642 5100 Mobile: 0417 966 612 Facsimile: 8642 5500 Telephone: 8642 5100 Mobile: 0417 966 612 Facsimile: 8642 5500 15 PATIENT INFORMATION Mental Health The Adult Mental Health team provides specialised one to one counselling, group work and health promotion activities aimed at promoting mental, emotional, physical and social health and wellbeing. Workers provide information, education, counselling and support to adults, families and carers whose lives are affected by mental health issues. Services are provided to adults over 18 years of age, in the Port Augusta community and throughout the Far North Region of South Australia. For more information: Central intake: Free Call 1300 760 177 Facsimile 8648 5801 AGED CARE FACILITIES Since Nerrilda opened in 1987, Port Augusta Hospital has ceased to provide residential Nursing home beds. Elderly individuals who may require supported living in an Aged Care Residential facility are now referred to the Flinders & Far North Aged Care Assessment Team. The Commonwealth funds Aged Care Assessment Teams (ACAT) to provide assessment, information, advice and assistance to older people who want to remain at home, or who are thinking about moving into a low level (hostel) or high level (nursing home) Aged Care facility. AGENCIES LOCATED AT PORT AUGUSTA HOSPITAL & REGIONAL HEALTH SERVICES If you require further information or access to any of the services listed below, please ask the nursing staff or telephone the numbers listed. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services - Phone: (08) 8648 5800 Drug and Alcohol Services - Phone: (08) 8648 5873 Royal Flying Doctor Service - Phone: (08) 8642 2044 Regional Paediatric Unit - Phone: (08) 8648 5578 South Australian Dental Service - Phone: (08) 8648 5840 YOUR RIGHTS Port Augusta Hospital and Regional Health Services recognises and promotes the following set of rights and responsibilities to enhance the rights of consumers and health care workers. ACCESS TO PERSONAL RECORDS Except for certain legal exemptions You have the right: To see information kept about you by government services, either personally or through another person you nominate, and to have a copy of this information. To seek amendment of your personal information and to have comments attached to your records or files. A fee is charged for your application and search of the information. The fee may be waived in some cases. 16 PATIENT INFORMATION The Freedom of Information Act 1991 is available from the Patient Services Manager. CONFIDENTIALITY Health services are required to keep your personal information confidential. Confidentiality is binding on all health service workers, paid and voluntary. Individuals involved in your care should always try to make sure that conversations about your health or other personal matters are held privately or in quiet areas. Health services have to ensure that paper and electronic information about you is stored securely. Only authorised personnel involved in your care have access to information about you and your care. Your personal health information will only be shared with other health service providers on a need to know basis. This will happen when they are asked to become involved in your health care. For example, it is standard practice for public hospitals to provide a discharge summary to your General Practitioner when you leave the hospital and if appropriate district nursing and community based services. Also, some health information stored electronically by one health service is made available through computer systems to other health service providers within the public health system. This exchange of information ensures that, wherever you are treated, health professionals will have immediate access to your personal health records especially in an emergency. Some information about your health may be used to help health services improve their services. Wherever possible, any information used for these purposes will not identify you. If you are being treated in a public hospital, information about you may be shared with your private health insurance fund (if you have one) or with a third party, but only if you have given written authority to do so. A third party could include: WorkCover, the Motor Accident Commission (or another approved insurer under the Motor Vehicles Act 1959) or your employer. DECISION MAKING Participation in decision making and consent to treatment, except for certain legal exemptions. You have the right: To have all information given to you in a language/format you can understand including the right: To have your illness and treatment options - including having no treatment discussed with you To be told of any material risks - a risk that you or a reasonable person in the same position would consider to be significant and have them explained to you To be told which treatment your health worker recommends so that you can make an informed decision about your health care To be asked for your consent prior to any form of treatment, that this consent be given voluntarily and to be given a clear explanation of any document you are asked to sign To know why and if the treatment is experimental or being used in research and to refuse to participate in medical research experiments To change your decision or refuse treatment at any time and to be given an explanation 17 PATIENT INFORMATION of the possible consequences of not taking the advice of the health worker To meet the people involved in your care and to know their name and qualifications To refuse care from a particular health worker recognising that the particular health service may not be able then to accommodate your treatment or care To be given information about diagnostic tests and to have the results and the implications of those results explained to you To know the uses and anticipated effects of the drugs you are being given To have an explanation of the chances of success, the need for any further treatment, the likelihood of return to good health, convalescence and rehabilitation requirements To refuse admission to a health care facility regardless of your condition or against medical advice To refuse life prolonging treatment or to receive palliative care To discharge yourself from the health service at any time at your own risk To authorise another person to make decisions for you and to have the same rights on behalf of your child. Children as they get older have the right to be consulted and to make decisions on their own behalf. Once 16, they may decide freely for themselves (on an informed basis) whether or not to accept treatment. People under the guardianship of another person or the State have the right to participate in decision making - subject to the court s power to decide otherwise. In South Australia emergency medical procedures are allowed to be carried out when you are unable to give consent, if you require a life saving treatment. Information regarding specific exemptions are available from: Mental Health Act 1993 Guardianship and Administration Act 1993 Consent to Medical Treatment and Palliative Care Act 1995 Criminal Law Consolidation Act (Mental Impairment) 1935 CARE Reasonable Care You are owed a duty of care by health care workers given their experience and position and taking into account your individual needs. You have the right: To competent health care which is appropriate for your condition or illness To health care regardless of your social or financial status, age, sex, race, religion, political belief, sexuality, disability, health or legal status To have continuity of care, including planning of your continuing health care before you are discharged and follow-up after you are discharged. Future health care decisions (living wills) and Palliative Care You have the right to record your wishes about medical and end of life decisions (including whether to accept or reject certain treatments) should you become unable to make such 18 PATIENT INFORMATION decisions for yourself at some future time. You may appoint your own Medical Agent, or an Enduring Guardian to speak up for your wishes if you become incapable. If you do not wish to appoint a person in that role you can still make your wishes known about the end of your life in an Anticipatory Direction. In an advance health care directive your wishes must be respected and upheld by service providers. Information regarding the specific forms is available from: Guardianship and Administration Act 1993 Consent to Medical Treatment & Palliative Care Act 1995 You have the right: To change this decision at any time To receive palliative care and to die with dignity To have access to relatives and/or friends on a full time basis during the end stage of life. Considerate and Courteous Care You have the right: To be treated with dignity and consideration by others To have your ethnic, cultural and religious practices and your beliefs respected To be addressed by your proper name or name of your choice To be listened to when you have a question or want more information To receive a response to any request you make for service or information. If you have a disability that prevents you from communicating with the staff and you have a principal carer, that person will be treated with the same dignity and respect as you in relation to your medical care and treatment during the end stage of life. Respect for your Privacy You have the right: To decide who will be present during the provision of your health care To talk with other patients, friends, relatives and advocates, in order to have your needs represented to those providing the health service to you To feel safe from any form of abuse whilst using public health service facilities To stay with your child in hospital, except where separation is necessary for medical emergencies. Conversely, children have the right to have their parents present. Asking for an interpreter You have the right: To be offered or to ask staff at the health unit you are attending for an interpreter to be present. Also relatives, friends or fellow patients can assist a consumer who cannot hear, read or understand English by asking for an interpreter. HEALTH INFORMATION You have the right: To receive current and clear information on the options available, to help you make choices about maintaining good health and preventing illness To accessible, user friendly, culturally appropriate and affordable health promotion services 19 PATIENT INFORMATION To receive information about your treatment, drugs and the best way to look after yourself and your particular illness To information about the health care system including local services, special associations, aids, appliances and facilities, which may help you. Second Opinion You have the right: To seek a second medical opinion and/or information from other sources about your diagnosis and treatment. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES Just as care provided to you should reflect certain principles you also have a responsibility to assist with your care. You have a responsibility: To help the staff by being aware of the demands on them and by communicating your needs with normal courtesy. The emergency and immediate care needed by another patient will determine how quickly your request is addressed To tell your health care worker your medical details including any problems or complications experienced previously, particularly any allergies or medications you are taking To ask your doctor for a full, clear explanation of your treatment, drugs and tests which are recommended to you To ask for a further explanation if you do not understand what you have been told To assist with any treatment plan you and your health worker have agreed on, for example, by following directions given to you and by reporting any change in your condition to the health worker To treat staff with respect, to be non- abusive and non-threatening and refer to them by their proper or preferred name. SERVICES Public Hospital Services All Australian residents are eligible to be treated free of charge as a public patient in a public hospital and access should be on the basis of assessed clinical need, regardless of the ability to pay. The range of services available will depend on the size and role of the hospital and could include inpatient and outpatient services, emergency services and specialised services such as obstetrics and health promotion. You have the right: To know about the expected charges of any proposed treatment, test or other health-related service To pay no more than the agreed fee or in the absence of an agreement a reasonable fee To receive an itemised account and to query any item. You have the right if you are away from home and need health care to seek treatment at any nearby public hospital. Visitors from certain countries, which have signed health insurance agreements with Australia, are also covered. 20 PATIENT INFORMATION Hospital Services in Rural Areas You have the right: To expect the health services that are located in rural areas to provide at least a basic range of services for public patients. If you require more complex treatment that is not available locally you may be referred to a health unit where the treatment is available. PUBLIC OR PRIVATE? Choosing to become a public patient You have the right to choose - even if you are insured privately - when attending a public hospital to be asked if you wish to elect to be treated as a public or private patient. If you choose public or private patient care you have the right to know what this decision means. As a private patient you have your choice of doctor and you will be charged by the hospital for the services provided. You may also be charged by your medical practitioner/s. As a public patient, you do not have your choice of doctor and no charges will be made for medical services. If you are not asked, you have the right to make your choice known to staff at the hospital. Elective Surgery and Waiting Lists If your condition is not life threatening, you may be put on a waiting list for elective treatment/surgery. You have the right: To know your expected waiting time To know if there is another health service where the wait would be shorter, or if there are other options for earlier treatment If your condition worsens, to ask through your G.P. to be seen sooner. Medical Services and Visiting Specialist Services Available Clinical Genetic Services Emergency Services General Medicine General Surgery Obstetric/Gynaecology Paediatrics Renal & Haemodialysis Mental Health Orthopaedics Ophthalmology Urology Ear, Nose & Throat Surgery Gerontology Cardiology Rheumatology Palliative Care Allergy Vascular Surgery Consulting & Minor Surgery Dental Surgery Thoracic Surgery (consulting services) 21 PATIENT INFORMATION DIETARY GUIDELINES FOR AUSTRALIANS Eat plenty of vegetables, legumes and fruits. Eat plenty of cereals (including breads, rice, pasta and noodles), preferably wholegrain. Include lean meat, fish, poultry and/or alternatives. Include milks, yoghurts, cheeses and/or alternatives. Reduced-fat varieties should be chosen, where possible. Drink plenty of water. and take care to: Limit saturated fat and moderate total fat intake. Choose foods low in salt. Limit your alcohol intake if you choose to drink. Consume only moderate amounts of sugars and foods containing added sugars. Prevent weight gain: be physically active and eat according to your energy needs. Care for your food: prepare and store it safely. Encourage and support breastfeeding. 10 TIPS FOR SAFER HEALTH CARE 1. Be actively involved in your own care. 2. Speak up if you have any questions or concerns. 3. Learn more about your condition or treatment. 4. Keep a list of all the medicines you are taking. 5. Make sure you understand the medicines you are taking. 6. Get the results of any test or procedure. 7. Talk about your options if you need to go into hospital. 8. Make sure you understand what will happen if you need surgery or a procedure. 9. Make sure you, your doctor and your surgeon all agree on exactly what will be done. 10.Before you leave hospital, ask your health care professional to explain the treatment plan you will use at home. Preventing Falls and Harm From Falls in Older People Best Practice Guidelines for Australian Hospitals 2009, developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Did you know that many older patients fall while in hospital? While some falls cause no injuries, others can cause serious harm. Falls can also result in you fearing further falls and make it harder for you to stay independent. There are usually a number of reasons for someone falling. These may include poor balance, incontinence, unfamiliar environments and obstacles, poor eyesight, unsafe footwear and some medicines, to name a few. There are a number of ways to reduce your chance of falling. Staff will help you to stop falling by helping you to settle in, keeping your surroundings safe, and providing you with falls prevention information 22 PATIENT INFORMATION assessing your risk of falling and discussing the results with you developing and implementing a falls prevention care plan suited to your needs referring you to other staff who specialise in different areas organising visits by occupational therapists or physiotherapists to your home before or after discharge, to help make your home safer, or to suggest changes to it or equipment to help you move safely. Everyone has a role to play in preventing falls What can you do when you are in hospital? Always use your call bell early if you require assistance and keep it in easy reach. Take your time when getting up from sitting or lying down. Let staff know if you feel unwell or unsteady on your feet. If staff recommend that you need assistance or supervision when moving, please ask them for this assistance and wait until they come to help you. Familiarise yourself with your room, its furniture and bathroom. Look out for hazards that may cause a fall, such as spills and clutter, and tell staff about them promptly. If you have your prescribed walking aid, make sure it is in good condition and that you use it rather than using furniture or walls for balance. If you have spectacles, only wear your distance ones when walking. Take special care when using bifocal or multifocal glasses. Wear comfortable clothing that is not too long or loose. Whenever you are up and about, wear comfortable, low-heeled and non-slip shoes that fit you well, rather than slippers. Always keep your fluid levels up, because dehydration can disorient you. What happens if you fall? If you do have a fall, hospital the staff should take action to identify what contributed to your fall and reduce the risk of you falling again. You may be assessed by a doctor, and staff will repeat some or all of your fall risk assessment. This may mean that your care plan will need to be changed. However, any changes to your care plan will be discussed with you. Remember: Preventing falls is important when you go home as well, so before you leave hospital you may be referred to follow-up services to make your home safer and to reduce your risk of falling. Who we are Family Violence Legal Service Aboriginal Corporation (SA) is funded by the Australian Government Attorney General s Department, for services related to victim-survivors of family violence or sexual assault within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, currently we have three services operating in South Australia located at Port Augusta, Port Lincoln and Ceduna. What we do FVLSAC is a free and confidential service available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have experienced family violence or sexual assault. Our organisation provides accessible, safe and culturally appropriate services and assistance. Our legal services include: Legal advice and casework, court support, counselling, information and referrals, community legal education and intervention and prevention programs. FVLSAC has developed the slogan Love Don t Shove. It is a campaign aimed at encouraging families to build healthier relationships based on love and respect rather than violence. Family violence breaks the hearts of those closest to us, our communities and has long term effects on all involved. H O S P I T A L P A T I E N T S G U I D E PUBLISHED BY: TESTRO FACTORING PTY. LTD. (Incorporated in Victoria) A.B.N 40 004 494 688 PO BOX 495, Altona, Victoria 3018 Telephone: (03) 9315 6811 Fax: (03) 9315 6844 Email: testrohpg@ozemail.com.au COPYRIGHT 2012. This document is the subject of copyright vested in Testro Factoring Pty. Ltd. Port Augusta Hospital, Port Augusta 5364/2012 </pre> </body> </html>