Welcome to SouthCrest Hospital. We are pleased that you and your physician have selected us to provide your medical care.

SouthCrest Hospital is committed to providing the highest quality of care to our patients in a safe and customer friendly environment.

Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive services and care. Whether your needs are for inpatient or outpatient care, we look forward to exceeding your expectations.
You, as the patient, play a vital role in making your care safe and efficient by becoming an active, involved and informed member of your healthcare team. This information is designed to provide you with the tools necessary to do that.

• Speak out if you have questions or concerns. If you do not understand, ask. Your health is too important to worry about being embarrassed. If you do not understand something that your physician, nurse or other healthcare professional tells you; ask for clarification.
• Pay attention to the care you are receiving. Tell your physician or nurse if something does not meet your expectations.
• Educate yourself about your diagnosis, medications being taken, medical tests you are undergoing and your treatment plan. Gather information about your condition, medications being taken and the operation of any equipment that is used in your care.
• Assign a trusted family member or friend to be your advocate. Select a person you can communicate with and that you trust to assist you in clarifying treatment options.
• Participate in all decisions about your treatment. You are the center of your healthcare team and should participate in all treatment decisions made regarding your care.

I thank you for choosing SouthCrest Hospital for your healthcare needs and offer you my best wishes for a full and complete return to health.

Sincerely,

Anthony R. Young
President and CEO

Statement of Belief

Those who serve within SouthCrest Hospital support and uphold the following beliefs as the basis for decision-making and service provision:

• We exist to respond to the health needs of individuals and families in their communities to the fullest extent that human and material resources will allow.
• Every person enjoys special dignity and equal worth. Recognition of this dignity demands that acceptance, compassion, and respect characterize relationships among those who serve and with those served.
• The quality and breadth of services must reflect the excellence of professional standards and sound business practice and evidence personalized care and warm hospitality.
• We are called to assure that those served receive the highest quality services appropriate to their needs. Networking among care providers with similar callings should be pursued in ways that strengthen our service response.

Statement of Mission

SouthCrest Hospital’s mission is “Bringing quality to life through people caring for people.”

In keeping with this mission statement, SouthCrest Hospital provides general and acute health services to individuals and families in our community.

Because we recognize the dignity of each person, we strive for excellence in our work. We challenge ourselves to perform in a spirit of mercy characterized by compassion and caring.

Your Accommodations

Your Hospital Team

Food and Room Service

For Your Safety and Security

For Family and Friends

Hospital Bills and Insurance

Special Services

Going Home

Keeping Healthy

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

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Your Accommodations

Private Rooms

All rooms at SouthCrest Hospital are private and are designed for your comfort and safety.

Your Hospital Bed

The nursing staff will demonstrate how to properly work your electronically operated hospital bed. Since the hospital bed is probably higher and narrower than your bed at home, side rails have been installed. For your safety, these rails may be raised at night or during the day if you’re resting, recovering from surgery or taking certain medications.

Room Temperature

All patient rooms in the hospital are centrally heated and air-conditioned. If your room temperature is not comfortable, please notify the nursing staff.

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Calling Your Nurse

A button to call your nurse is located at your bedside. When you press the button, the nursing station is alerted that you need assistance, and a light flashes above your door. A staff member will respond to your signal as soon as possible.

During the Night

Strange surroundings and sleeping medications may create a hazard if you get out of bed during the night. For your safety, please use your call button for assistance during the night.

Television

Color television sets are provided at no additional charge in each room. Please be considerate of other patients by playing TV sets softly and by turning off your set at bedtime. The following programming has been added:

(Channel 3) Teaming up for Patient Safety is a 10 minute presentation for patients to view.

(Channel 15) The Patient Education Channel is a satellite broadcast service available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week throughout the hospital. The channel provides easy to understand, reliable patient education on some of the most common acute and chronic diseases and conditions.

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Telephones

Telephones are provided in each room, except in the critical care units. Patients may receive calls in their rooms from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. Local calls may be made at any time from the room by dialing “9” and the number. Please call the operator for assistance with long distance calls. Your family and friends can call you in your room by dialing 294-4 plus your room number. For example, to call room 822, dial 294-4822. You may call the hospital operator by dialing “0” at any time for assistance.

Leaving the Unit

If you want to leave the unit, please check first at the nurse’s station to make sure your physician has given approval and to let the staff know where you can be reached. It is important to stay in your room until your physician has made rounds and treatments have been completed.

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Your Hospital Team

The Medical Staff

The physician who admits you is responsible for directing your care while you are in the hospital. Your physician, as the coordinator for your treatment program, should be consulted if you have questions about your illness or care.

The Nursing Staff

Twenty-four hour nursing care is provided by a team of professional registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and nurse assistants. A Director is responsible for directing and coordinating nursing care on each unit. Please feel free to contact your nurse or the Director if you have questions or concerns.

Pastoral Services

Your priest, minister, or rabbi is always welcome to visit you while you are here. If you do not have a spiritual counselor, volunteer chaplains are available on a limited basis. Please ask your nurse to contact the Volunteer Coordinator at extension 4009.

Dietitians

The hospital maintains a staff of full-time registered dietitians to meet your dietary needs during your stay. If you have questions about your meals or diet, please talk with your nurse.

Social Workers

Social workers are assigned to each patient care area and are trained to help patients and family members deal with financial, social and emotional problems that relate to illness or hospitalization. Members of the department work with patients and families to help deal with long-term illnesses and rehabilitation and are involved in discharge planning.

Patient Accounting

A representative from the Patient Accounting Department can answer questions about your hospital bill and help you interpret financial policies and billing procedures at the hospital. If you are still in the hospital, please contact them at extension 4727. After discharge, you may contact Patient Accounting by calling 294-4470, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Housekeepers

Your room is cleaned daily by a member of the housekeeping staff. If there is a housekeeping problem in your room, please contact your nurse and it will be taken care of as soon as possible.

Volunteers

Volunteers contribute many hours of service to the hospital. They supplement the services of the hospital staff in many ways and can be identified by their nametag and blue vest. If you are interested in becoming a SouthCrest volunteer, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 294-4009.

Other Personnel

During your stay you may be visited by many other healthcare professionals, including personnel from the laboratory, radiology, or physical therapy departments. In addition, the SouthCrest Hospital family includes many behind-the-scenes workers, such as accountants, engineers, secretaries, food service workers and others who contribute greatly toward your well being while you are here.

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Food and Room Service

Wholesome, nourishing, and well-balanced meals are an important part of your treatment and recovery. SouthCrest Hospital provides nutritious meals that are prepared according to your physician’s orders.

Patients are served breakfast beginning at 8:00 am, lunch beginning at noon and dinner beginning at 5:00 pm. Occasionally, your meal may be delayed if you are scheduled for a special test or treatment. Whenever possible, you will be served after your examination or test.

Your breakfast tray will include a menu from which you can order your meals for the next day. Please mark your menu so it will be ready for pickup. If you have difficulty making menu selections, a member of the Dietary Department will be happy to help you. Please call extension 4054 for assistance. If you are on a special diet prescribed by your physician, you will receive menus tailored to your specific needs.

A special room service menu is also available. Patient meals are free and guests may eat for an additional charge that can be paid when ordering. Please call extension 4054 to place your room service order.

Family members and/or visitors may also receive trays in patient rooms for a small fee. To order and pay for guest trays, please call extension 4054. In addition, family members and/or visitors may purchase food in the café to take back to the patient room.

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Cafeteria

The Café at SouthCrest Hospital is open at the following times:

Weekdays

Breakfast is served from 6:30 am until 9:00 am

Lunch is served from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm

Dinner is served from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm

Weekends and Holidays

Breakfast is served from 8:00 am until 10:00 am

Lunch is served from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm

Vending Machines

Vending machines for snacks and beverages are located in the Emergency Department waiting area and next to the Café. They are available 24 hours a day.

Food Establishments

There is a list of food establishments available for your convenience when the Café is closed. Please click here for the listing.

SouthCrest Hospital Room Service Menu

Room service is available Monday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm for patients and guests. Patient meals are free and guests may order from the menu and pay the guest charge price when ordering. Please call extension 4054 to place your room service order.

Salads
Cobb Salad - Romaine and iceberg blend topped with diced ham, turkey, bacon, blue cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese.	$ 6.95
Chef Salad – Salad blend of fresh spring mix, romaine and iceberg lettuces. Topped with julienne of ham, turkey, cheddar, mozzarella, and sliced egg.	$ 6.95
Fresh Fruit Plate – Array of sliced honeydew, cantaloupe, pineapples, strawberries, grapes, and oranges.	$ 6.95
Pasta
Seafood Scampi – Sautéed shrimp and mussels tossed with linguini, yellow and red grape tomatoes, and garlic. Tied with a scampi sauce.	$15.95
Pasta Primavera – Penne pasta tossed with sun dried tomatoes, artichokes, black olives, and capers. Finished with a smoked cream marinara sauce topped with pine nuts.	$10.95
Grilled Chicken Fettuccine – Grilled marinated chicken tossed with fettuccine and Alfredo sauce.	$12.95
House Specialties
Grilled Filet (6 oz.) – Filet cooked to order with choice of béarnaise, three peppercorn or herb butter. Served with baked potato and vegetable of the day.	$16.95
Grilled Chicken – Marinated Italian style chicken with red and yellow pepper coulis. Served with rice pilaf and vegetable of the day.	$14.95
Steamed Orange Roughy (6 oz.) - Orange roughy steamed to perfection with a citrus glaze. Served with rice pilaf and vegetable of the day.	$16.95
Grilled Salmon (6 oz.) - Pacific salmon grilled to perfection topped with ancho butter and toasted pine nuts. Served with rice pilaf and vegetable of the day.	$16.95
Hamburgers and Sandwiches (all served with choice of fries or potato chips)
Grilled Hamburger - Topped with your choice of jalapeno or apple wood smoked bacon. Includes leaf lettuce, tomato slice and pickle spear.	$5.00
Grilled Cheeseburger - Topped with your choice of Swiss, smoked Gouda or cheddar cheese. Includes leaf lettuce, tomato slice and pickle spear.	$5.00
SouthCrest Club Sandwich - Three slices of bread toasted and layered with turkey, ham, lettuce, tomato and apple wood smoked bacon.	$5.00

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For Your Safety and Security

Smoking

In keeping with the accreditation standards of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO) and the Federal Clean Air Act, SouthCrest Hospital is a tobacco-free facility. Smoking is known to be harmful to the smoker’s health as well as those who experience tobacco smoke secondarily. SouthCrest Hospital joined all other Tulsa hospitals in banning the use of tobacco on campus effective November 16, 2006. In the interest of health for our patients, our visitors and our associates, no use of tobacco products will be permitted on any SouthCrest property.

Fire Drills

For your protection, the hospital conducts fire and disaster drills regularly. If a drill occurs while you are here, remain calm and the staff will give you instructions.

Oxygen

Special regulations are in effect in areas where patients are receiving oxygen. Electrically operated equipment and aerosol products are not permitted in these areas. Absolutely no smoking is permitted around patients on oxygen in the hospital or at home, due to the potential for fire.

Medications

Please make sure your healthcare team is aware of all of the medications you are taking including over-the-counter medications and herbs. We want to be certain your medications do not react in a negative way with each other.

Medications come in many sizes, shapes, dosages and colors. Ask your physician or nurse to explain to you what the medications are and why you are taking them.

When you go home from the hospital with medications, make sure you can read them and have been educated on what they are for and how to take them. Ask your physician, pharmacist or a member of your healthcare team if you have questions about possible side effects or how to take the medication.

If your medication is liquid, get a medication dispenser from your local pharmacy to be certain you are getting the correct dosage each time. Using a teaspoon from your silverware is not a safe way to measure your medication.

All medications you take while in the hospital are prescribed by your physician, dispensed by the hospital pharmacy and administered by a nurse. Patients are not permitted to administer their own drugs or keep personal medications at their bedsides.

It is VITAL that you let a member of your healthcare team know if you have an allergy to ANY medication, even if it is only a rash. It is possible to not have an allergic reaction to a medication until after you have taken it several times.

Eating certain foods while taking medication can sometimes cause you to have a reaction (an upset stomach, for example). Please be sure to ask if there are any foods you should avoid while taking medications.

Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are available on all nursing units, but getting in and out of them without assistance may be hazardous. Please ask for help from a member of the hospital staff.

Valuable or Lost Items

The hospital is not responsible for money or personal belongings kept in the patient room. All valuables should be sent home with family members. If valuables must be kept on site, the Safety and Security Office should be contacted at extension 4444 so that the items can be secured in the hospital safe. You will be given a written receipt for all items which must be presented when you withdraw them. The hospital does not accept responsibility for items of value unless they are deposited in the safe. If you lose something, please notify your nurse immediately and we will make every effort to help you find it. Unclaimed articles are turned in to the Safety and Security Office where they are kept for 90 days. To inquire about lost articles, call the Safety and Security Office at 294-4444.

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Keeping Healthy

Avoiding a Fall

Keeping you safe while you are here for care is one of our primary goals. You may have tests, medications and treatments that increase your chance of falling while hospitalized. Being in bed for even one day or taking new medications can cause a person to feel dizzy or weak. Here is what you can do to help prevent falls:

• If your call light, bedside table, telephone and anything else you need are not within easy reach let your nurse know.
• Ask your physician or nurse what activities are safe for you to do on your own.
• Ask for help before you get out of bed especially if you feel weak, lightheaded or dizzy.
• Do activities at a slower speed. Move slowly. Sit at the side of the bed and wait to see how you feel before you stand up.
• If you need help to walk, please call your nurse. Never lean on or use an IV pole or anything with wheels to support you.
• Use the toilet often so that you will not have to hurry when you have to go. Also ask for assistance when walking to and from the restroom.
• Please ask someone to unplug and plug in your IV pump. Bending over can cause a person to feel dizzy.
• When possible, avoid wearing long nightgowns and robes. These can cause a person to trip.
• Wear slippers, socks or shoes that will not slip when you get up. It is best to wear shoes or slippers that fit well and stay securely on the feet. Please ask your nurse for a pair of slip resistant socks if you need something to wear.
• Please let a member of the healthcare team know there is a spill or slippery area that could cause you or others to slip and fall.

Once you reach your room, a nurse will do an initial assessment. If it is determined you are at a risk for falls, you will be given a fall risk bracelet. This bracelet is very important to your safety and should only be removed by a member of the healthcare team. If you or a family member notices that your bracelet is missing, please notify your nurse immediately so that another bracelet can be made. 

Avoiding Skin Breakdown

When you are very sick, you are prone to have skin breakdown wherever the weight of your body presses into the bed. You are at greatest risk if you move very little, or if you are in bed or a chair for a long time, especially if you have also been losing weight. It is worth a great deal of effort to keep skin well protected as skin breakdown is uncomfortable, slows your overall healing and is costly to treat once acquired. To help protect yourself from skin breakdown, follow these guidelines:

· Change position at least every two hours. If you are in bed and comfortable in most positions, lie on one side, then your back, then the other side. Have a member of your healthcare team show you and your family members how to help you shift positions comfortably.

· Use pillows to protect common pressure points where skin breaks down easily, including your heels and elbows, the back of the head, the buttocks and between the knees. The pillows will support your body so that areas with breakdown or those at risk for breakdown are not bearing weight.

· Ensure that you are eating a balanced diet. Good nutrition promotes skin health.

· Maintain a clean, dry environment for all areas of skin. Moisture from weepy skin, perspiration, urine or bowel movements hastens skin breakdown.

· Gently massage the back, arms, ears, hands, legs and feet with moisturizing lotion or cream.

· If you or your family notices reddened or broken skin or pressure points, please notify your physician or nurse immediately. You may need special medications, dressings or bed accessories (such as soft pads or heel protectors) to provide added skin protections.

Preventing Infections in the Hospital

Infections can occur after many types of medical procedures. This is particularly true if you are having surgery. There are several things you can do to help prevent infections from developing in the hospital:

• Wash your hands carefully after handling any type of soiled material. This is especially important after you have gone to the restroom.
• Since you are part of your healthcare team, do not be afraid to remind physicians and nurses about washing their hands before working with you.
• If you have an intravenous (IV) catheter, keep the skin around the dressing clean and dry. Tell your nurse promptly if the dressing works loose or gets wet.
• Likewise, if you have a dressing on a wound let your nurse know promptly if it becomes loose or gets wet.
• If you have any type of catheter or drainage tube let your nurse know promptly if it becomes loose or dislodged.
• If you have diabetes, be sure that you and your physician discuss the best way to control your blood sugar before, during and after your hospital stay. High blood sugar noticeably increases the risk of infection.
• If you are overweight, losing weight will reduce the risk of infection following surgery.
• If you are a smoker, you should consider a smoking cessation program. This will reduce the chance of developing a lung infection while in the hospital and may also improve your healing abilities following surgery.
• Carefully follow your physician’s instructions regarding breathing treatments and getting out of bed. Do not be afraid to ask for help, advice or sufficient pain medications.
• If possible, ask your friends and relatives not to visit if they themselves feel ill.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions about your care so that you may fully understand your treatment plan and expected outcomes. You and your family/friends will be able to better facilitate your recovery.

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Alarms

For your safety, alarms are placed on our equipment. If you hear an alarm coming from equipment in your room, please help the staff by pressing your call bell and notifying the nurse.

Surgical Safety

Your surgical team will mark your surgical site with a pen to be certain it is understood what part of your body will be undergoing surgery. Surgery staff takes a “time out” just before your surgery to confirm your name and birth date, the procedure to be performed and the location to be certain the correct area has been marked. Make sure you understand everything that will happen if you need surgery. A member of the healthcare team can walk you through the process. If you have trouble understanding, ask questions and/or bring a family member or friend to assist you.

Radiation/MRI Safety

The hospital constantly monitors the amount of radiation that is used in every test to assure that you only receive the amount you need. When coming in for a test, please leave all of your jewelry at home. This is particularly important if you are having an MRI test. Before entering the MRI room, you will be screened for metal objects.

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For Family and Friends

Visiting Hours

Visitors can be good medicine for patients and family members and friends are welcome to visit. However, patient care is our primary concern at SouthCrest Hospital; therefore, we ask that you respect the other patients and be mindful of the hours that your visitors come and see you. If you need additional information, please check with your nurse.

Visiting Regulations

The following are general guidelines for visitors:

• Visitors must dress appropriately and must wear shirts and shoes.
• In some units, there is a limit on the number of visitors. Please ask about your specific unit at the nurse’s station.
• People with colds, sore throats or any contagious diseases should not visit patients.
• Visits should be kept short.
• Visitors should maintain a quiet environment and avoid unnecessary noise.
• Visitors may be asked to leave the room during tests or treatments or when the physician or nurse needs to see the patient.
• Liberal visiting arrangements may be made for families of surgical patients on the day of surgery.

SouthCrest joined all other Tulsa hospitals in banning the use of tobacco products on campus effective November 16, 2006. In the interest of health for our patients, our visitors and our associates, no use of tobacco products will be permitted on any SouthCrest.

Condition Reports

Any personal information about your diagnosis and treatment must come from your physician, and this information is only available to members of your immediate family whom you designate.

Gifts for Patients

Visitors should check with the nurse before bringing gifts of food or drink to patients. For the Intensive Care Unit, please check with the unit regarding any gifts for patients.

Parking

Free parking for patients and visitors is available at SouthCrest Hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Patients and visitors are cautioned not to park in reserved areas or certain designated areas. Please be sure to lock your car. If something happens which causes you to need assistance with your vehicle, please call the Safety and Security Office at extension 4444.

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Waiting Areas

There are specially designated lounge areas for visitors on each patient floor and on the main floor in the lobby. Specific waiting areas have been designated for families of patients in the Intensive Care Unit, the Emergency Department and Surgery. During certain hours, a volunteer is on duty in the Surgery Waiting Room to keep family members informed about the progress of surgery.

Out-of-Town Visitors

Accommodations for relatives and visitors from out-of-town are available at nearby hotels. Ask your nurse for maps, directions and pricing information for various hotels in close proximity to the hospital.

Gift Shop

The Gift Shop, staffed by volunteers, is open from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday; weekend hours vary. The shop has gift items, jewelry, greeting cards, candy, toiletries, flowers and plants. The Gift Shop can be reached at extension 4857.

Chapel

The Chapel is located across from Registration on the first floor. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to visit the Chapel for worship services, prayer and meditation. Prayer services are held at various times, please check with your nurse for the schedule.

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Hospital Bills and Insurance

All patients should familiarize themselves with the terms of their insurance coverage. This will help you understand the hospital’s billing procedures and charges. If there is a question about your insurance coverage, a member of the Patient Accounting Department will contact you or a member of your family while you are here.

If You Have Health Insurance

We will need a copy of your identification card and we also may need the insurance forms, which are supplied by your employer or the insurance company. You will be asked to assign benefits from the insurance company directly to the hospital.

If You Are a Member of an HMO or PPO

Your plan may have special requirements, such as a second surgical opinion or pre-certification for certain tests or procedures. It is your responsibility to make sure the requirements of your plan have been met. If your plan’s requirements are not followed, you may be financially responsible for all or part of the services rendered in the hospital. Some physician specialists may not participate in your healthcare plan and their services may not be covered.

If You Are Covered by Medicare

We will need a copy of your Medicare card to verify eligibility and process your Medicare claim. You should be aware that the Medicare program specifically excludes payment for certain items and services such as cosmetic surgery, some oral surgery procedures, personal comfort items, hearing evaluations and others. Deductibles and co-payments also are the responsibility of the patient.

If You Are Covered by Medicaid

We will need a copy of your Medicaid card. Medicaid also has payment limitations on a number of services and items.

If You Have No Insurance

A financial counselor is available to discuss financial arrangements with you. A hospital representative who is a representative of the Division of Family Services is also available to assist you in applying for Medicaid or other government assistance programs. Please call 294-4727 for assistance.

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Your Hospital Bill

The hospital is responsible for submitting bills to your insurance company and will do everything possible to expedite your claim. But you should remember that your policy is a contract between you and your insurance company and you have the final responsibility for payment of your hospital bill. We have several payment options available to assist you in paying your bill.

Your bill reflects all of the services you receive during your stay. Charges fall into two categories: a basic daily rate, which includes your room, meals, nursing care, housekeeping, telephone and television; and charges for special services which include items your physician orders for you such as X-rays or laboratory tests.

If you have certain tests or treatments in the hospital, you may receive bills from physicians you did not see in person. These bills are for professional services rendered by these physicians in diagnosing and interpreting test results while you were a patient. Pathologists, radiologists, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and other specialists perform these services and are required to submit separate bills. If you have questions about these bills, please call the number printed on the statement you receive from them.

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Special Services

SouthCrest Hospital offers a variety of special services to make your stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible. These special services include the following:

Mail

Volunteers deliver letters and packages for patients each morning. Letters and parcels that arrive after you have been discharged are forwarded to your home. Outgoing mail may be left at the nurse’s station.

Flowers

Volunteers or your nurse will deliver flowers to your room. Please keep in mind that large plants and flowers are difficult to deliver and need to be removed upon discharge.

Newspapers

Limited supplies of newspapers are provided to patients and visitors; please ask your nurse for your complimentary copy.

Notary Public

The services of a notary are available for patients free of charge. For information, please ask your nurse to contact the Nursing House Supervisor.

For the Hearing/Visually Impaired

A telecommunications device is available to help hearing impaired patients or patients who want to communicate with a hearing impaired relative or friend. This device is located in Administration and the Nursing House Supervisor has access after business hours. For any visual impairment, please contact the Nursing House Supervisor.

Interpreters

The hospital has access to interpreters for a number of foreign languages should a patient require it. Please ask your nurse for assistance.

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Going Home

When your physician decides you are ready to leave the hospital, a discharge order will be written. You may want to make arrangements with a family member or a friend to help you when it’s time to go home. Some important things to consider are:

Checkout Time

Your physician and other consultants will collaborate on your appropriateness for discharge. Pending procedure/test results and discharge planning may delay your actual departure time.

Personal Belongings

Collect all of your belongings and double-check closets and drawers. If you have anything stored in the hospital safe, please call the Safety and Security Office at extension 4444 and an officer will bring your valuables to you.

Discharge Instructions

Your physician and your nurse will give you written instructions about post-hospital care. For your safety, please allow your nurse time to compose your discharge plan of care and instructions. Once your physician has written your discharge order, your nurse will need to coordinate the process with several different departments. Your patience during this process is appreciated. If you have questions about your activities, diet or other matters please be sure to ask your nurse or physician.

Oklahoma state law requires that an infant approved car seat be properly installed in the car for your baby’s ride home. For your baby’s safety, a car seat must be appropriately installed prior to your baby being discharged from the hospital.

Leaving the Hospital

When you are ready to leave the hospital, a member of the hospital staff will escort you via wheelchair to the front entrance and help you into the car.SouthCrest Hospital is committed to the quality of your life and offers some classes to help you get well and stay healthy. In order to assist you, we offer classes or programs in the following areas:

• Case Management/Social Services offer one-on-one education to families/patients on Advance Directives.
• Women’s Services – For class schedules, please call 855-6565.
• Healthy Living classes are offered monthly and provide free information on different health topics.

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Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Patient Rights

Patients have a right to healthcare at the organization’s facilities without regard to gender, race, ethnicity, cultural or religious background. Facilities shall not discriminate against patients whose care is paid for under the Medicare, Medicaid or other governmental payer program.

Access to Care

The patient has the right to reasonable responses to reasonable requests for services or accommodations that are available or medically indicated, regardless of race, creed, sex, national origin, cultural/religious beliefs, age or sources of payment for care.

If you have special needs related to language barriers or physical disabilities, please request assistance from the Case Management Department or Nursing House Supervisor.

Respect and Dignity

The patient has the right to considerate and respectful care at all times and under all circumstances. Patients have a right to an environment that preserves dignity and contributes to a positive self-image.

Privacy and Confidentiality

The patient has the right, within the law, to personal and informational privacy as manifested by the following:

· To receive a Notice of Privacy Practices.

· To request privacy protection in the form of restricted access to, and receipt of confidential communications regarding protected health information.

· To access protected health information.

· To amend protected health information.

· To request an accounting of disclosures of protected health information.

Personal Safety

The patient has the right to receive care in a safe setting.

• Patients have the right to be free from mental, physical, sexual/verbal abuse and neglect/exploitation.
• The patient has the right to seek protective services. If the patient feels unsafe in the hospital, or has some situation that makes them feel unsafe, the patient should notify the nurse or ask for the case manager.
• The hospital has the obligation to request protective privacy when considered necessary for personal safety.
• The patient has the right to be free from mental/physical abuse and from chemical/physical restraint, except in emergencies or as authorized in writing by a physician for a specified and limited period of time, and when necessary to protect the patient from injury to self or others.
• The patient and, with consent, their family is informed about the outcome of care including unanticipated outcomes.
• The hospital is not responsible for money or personal belongings kept in the patient room. All valuables should be sent home with family members. If valuables must be kept on site, the Safety and Security Office should be contacted at extension 4444 so that the items can be secured in the hospital safe. You will be given a written receipt for all items which must be presented when you withdraw them. The hospital does not accept responsibility for items of value unless they are deposited in the safe.

Identity

The patient has the right to know the identity and professional status of individuals providing service to them and to know which physician or other practitioner is primarily responsible for their care.

• The patient has the right to know if this hospital has relationships with outside parties that may influence their treatment and care. These relationships may be with educational institutions, other healthcare providers or insurers.

Information

The patient has the right to obtain from the practitioner responsible for coordinating their care, complete and current information concerning their diagnosis, treatment and any known prognosis. The hospital respects the patient’s right to and need for effective communication.

• The patient has the right to receive information in easy to understand terms that will allow for an informed consent or refusal of the treatment or procedures.
• The patient has the right of access to people outside the hospital by means of visitors, verbal communication and written communication.
• The patient has the right to request that we notify a pastor or spiritual counsel of their choice.
• The patient has the right to access the information contained in their medical record. Please contact the Health Information Department at 294-4010 to obtain the necessary documentation.

Informed Consent

The patient has the right to know the risks, benefits and alternatives to proposed treatments or procedures. Decisions should be based on a clear explanation, in language you understand, of the medical condition and of all proposed technical procedures, including the possibilities of any risk of mortality or serious side effects, problems related to recuperation and probability of success.

• The patient has the right to refuse treatment to the extent permitted by law.
• Consent will be obtained for recording or filming made for purposes other than the identification, diagnosis or treatment of the patient.

Education

The patient has the right to receive education and training specific to his/her assessed needs, abilities, learning preferences and readiness to learn as appropriate to the care and services provided by the hospital.

Pain Management

The patient has the right to request information about pain management and to expect timely pain relief measures will be provided by concerned staff committed to pain management.

Research Programs

The patient has the right to refuse participation in research investigations or clinical trials without compromise in hospital services.

Transfer and Continuity of Care

A patient may not be transferred to another facility unless they have received a complete explanation of the need for transfer and have consented to the transfer. The receiving facility must accept the request for transfer and have an accepting physician before transfer arrangements can be completed.

• The patient has the right to be told of realistic care alternatives when hospital care is no longer appropriate. The case manager or social worker will facilitate this process.
• Upon discharge from the hospital, should the patient require additional healthcare services, such as home health, hospice, rehabilitation, skilled nursing or other goods or services, the patient has the right to choose the providing agency. The case manager or social worker will facilitate this process.

Hospital Charges

The patient has the right to know about hospital rules that affect their treatment and about charges and payment methods and to examine or receive an explanation of the bill for services regardless of the source of payment.

• The patient will receive a timely and accurate bill for services provided.
• The patient may request an itemized statement of charges by contacting the billing office at 294-4470.
• The patient may request information regarding anticipated charges for a specific type of hospital stay.

Hospital Rules and Regulations

The patient has the right to be informed of hospital rules and regulations applicable to their conduct as a patient. The patient has the right to leave the hospital against the advice of a physician.

Advance Healthcare Choices

The patient has the right to make healthcare choices in advance, such as decisions on end of life care, living will and healthcare proxy or organ donation, and expect the staff to comply with those directives within legal limits.

• The patient may request to speak with Case Management or Social Services about completing an Advanced Directive, Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare or Do Not Resuscitate order.
• If the patient has an existing Advanced Directive, Durable Power of Attorney or Do Not Resuscitate order, a copy must be provided to the hospital.

Ethical Issues

The patient has the right to participate in ethical questions that may arise during the course of care, including issues of conflict resolution, withholding resuscitative measures, withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment or other end of life care issues. For an Ethics Committee consult, please request to speak with the case manager or Nursing House Supervisor.

• The patient with a terminal diagnosis has the right to therapy that will optimize comfort and alleviate pain.
• The patient has the right to access the hospital’s Code of Ethical Business policy.

Compliments or Unresolved Issues

We would love to hear about your positive experiences and acknowledge any outstanding care provided. However, if we failed to meet your expectations you have the right to voice complaints regarding care received, to have those complaints reviewed, and when possible, resolved without fear of recrimination. Should the patient/family wish to file a formal complaint, please contact our Quality Department. After hours, weekends and holidays, please contact the Nursing House Supervisor at 294-4886. The patient has the right to addresses/contact numbers of advocacy resources, if complaints are not addressed to their satisfaction.

SouthCrest Hospital
Quality Department
8801 S. 101st E. Avenue
Tulsa, OK 74133
(918) 294.4056

Oklahoma State Department of Health
1000 NE 10th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73117

(405) 271.6576

Medicare Fraud
Office of Inspector General
(800) 447.8477

Medicaid Fraud
(800) 252.8263

Office of Quality Monitoring

Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)

One Renaissance Blvd.

Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181

(800) 994.6610

or email them at: http://complaint@jcaho.org

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Patient Responsibilities

• It is the patient’s responsibility to provide to the best of their knowledge, accurate and complete information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, current medications, medication/food allergies and the reaction and other matters relating to their health.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to report unexpected changes in his/her condition to the responsible physician. If the care you are receiving does not meet your expectations, please tell your physician or nurse.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to ask questions when they do not understand the plan of care and to follow the treatment plan that is developed with the physician and their healthcare team. If you do not understand something that your physician, nurse or other healthcare professional tells you, please ask for clarification.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to educate themselves about their diagnosis, medications being taken, medical tests and treatment plan.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to participate in all decisions about their treatment.
• It is recommended that patients assign a trusted family member or friend to be their advocate and to assist in clarifying treatment options.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to report pain, inform the healthcare team when pain is not relieved and question the team if there are concerns about medication taken for pain management.
• The patient is responsible for any consequences related to refusal of treatment or does not follow the practitioner’s instructions.
• The patient is responsible for providing the necessary information for insurance processing and for arrangements to pay the hospital bill.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to be considerate of other patients.
• It is the patient’s responsibility to be respectful of the property of other patients and of hospital property.

Important Phone Numbers

Following is a list of telephone numbers that may be useful during your stay at SouthCrest Hospital. You only need to dial the four-digit extension from any telephone within the hospital to reach the department.

SouthCrest Hospital is grateful for the opportunity to serve you. We strive to provide you with excellent service. Should we fall short of meeting your expectations, please contact our Quality Department at 294-4056 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm or ask to speak to the Nursing House Supervisor.

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