Hospital safety: Tips for patients while visiting a hospital
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to grip India, however the lockdown restrictions have been gradually eased up. In the past few months, patients chose to delay non-critical and elective surgeries due to the fear of infection, leaving plenty of lives in peril.
As healthcare front liners continue to battle the pandemic, hospitals are well equipped to tackle a host of other health concerns to deliver high-acuity care. From OPD`s to full-fledged hospital services now resumed to normalcy, many patients are still fearful if visiting a hospital is safe or not, says Dr Anita Mathew, Senior Consultant, Physician & Infectious Disease Specialist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund.
Social Distancing
The first and foremost precaution is to maintain social distancing and safety for yourself and others in mind. Follow guidelines issued by governing bodies and medical authorities, and seek medical aid on time. Visit your doctor when necessary, avoid delaying treatment as prolonging an issue may aggravate the condition. Here are a few steps to ensure patients safety right from your doorstep to the hospital and back. Photo: PTI
Book an appointment rather queuing up
Before stepping out make sure to take prior appointments with your doctor. It is strongly advised to do so to avoid queuing up; call the hospital to check if appointments are to be booked online or over the phone. Wearing a mask is mandatory, carry an alcohol-based sanitizer, gloves as well as wet wipes. It is best to carry your own bottle of water from home. Photo: PTI
If possible, use personal vehicle instead of public transport
For your commute to the hospital, go by your own vehicle if you have one. If you are to take public transport, it is best to pre-book a cab/ auto rickshaw along with the person accompanying you. Make sure to sanitize your hands if you have touched any surfaces and avoid touching your face, eyes or mouth at all times while outdoors. Photo: PTI
Use cashless payment method
To pay for your transport, go cashless. Digital transactions will minimize the risk of you coming in exchange with paper money while at the hospital, the first thing you should do is ensure at least two feet space between you and another person. There could be a high possibility of you coming in contact with infected people even though hospitals have dedicated wards, it is best to practice social distancing and safety. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after meeting with your doctor. Use cashless mode of payment at hospital too. Photo: PTI
Follow hospital protocols
Even though hospitals adhere to immense sanitation practices, pay attention to protocols recommended by the staff. For your consultation, carry all necessary health documents and reports to avoid wasting your appointment time. You may write down all the details to be shared with your consultant or the questions you`d wish to ask to avoid any uncertainty or confusion. Share all information pertaining to your medical history or condition for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Photo: PTI
Avoid wearing mask with valves
Do not wear mask with valves, these are strictly to be avoided. Opt for a three ply homemade or store-bought mask instead. Photo: PTI