Scenario
As you recall, number two on the National Quality Strategy Priorities is person-and family-centered care. Prior to the 1980s, family and visitors were restricted to a few hours at a time and absolutely prohibited to stay overnight. When family arrived on discharge day, they were given minimal instructions on the care of invasive treatments such as bladder irrigation and told to return only if there were problems. As a result, patients did return with raging infections, wound dehiscence, and irreparable complications.
Fortunately, with the advent of patient-and family-centered care, readmissions have been reduced because of adequate training and participation of caregivers.
Reflect upon what you have learned about changing the concept from families as “visitors” to families as partners. Identify which policy you would prefer to see in your facility as a patient and as a healthcare leader. Use the Institute for Family- and Patient-Centered Care’s website to view sample policies.
1. Choose the policy you would like to see implemented as a family member and as a patient advocate.
a. Be specific and use the policy content to support your opinion.
b. What factors make this policy most attractive to you as an advocate?
1. Choose the policy you would like to see implemented as a future healthcare leader.
a. Again, be specific and use the policy content to support your opinion.
b. What factors make this policy most attractive to you as a future healthcare leader?
