Care of Patient and Family

At Decatur Memorial Hospital, we have the highest respect for all people at each stage of their journey through life. In providing this information, we hope to make this final journey less stressful for our patients and their families. If you or your family have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please relay that information to us.

Pain Medications
The nursing staff will be aggressive in order to make you as pain free and as comfortable as possible. If you are not experiencing relief with your current medication, let the nursing staff know and we will work with you and your physician to gain optimal pain relief for you. We encourage input from family members to help us assess how comfortable your family member is. More Information on Pain Medication.

Vital Signs
Every patient has his or her vital signs checked at the beginning of each shift or as ordered by your physician. If you or your family feel that there are adverse reactions to this (for example, increased pain or anxiety), we will advise the physician of your concerns.

Pastoral Services
Pastoral services are available around the clock. If you or your family members wish to speak with pastoral services or have them contact you, please let us know your wishes. If you would like your minister or priest contacted, we will do this for you at your request.

Privacy
We will protect your privacy at all times. If at all possible, a private room will be made available.

Cultural Practices
We respect all cultural differences and practices. If you have any beliefs that may affect your care, please discuss these with your nurse. If there is any way we can make your care more comfortable, please let us know.

Case Management
A DMH Case Manager can consult with your or your family, and has an office on your floor. A case manager is on call 24 hours a day.

Nursing Care
Our nursing care routine involves oral care, turning and repositioning, and keeping the bed dry and clean. To prevent skin breakdown, you may be asked about using a catheter to help with any incontinence.
If you are a diabetic, we will continue to monitor your sugar levels with finger sticks three or four times a day, unless otherwise indicated by you, your family, or physician. If at any time this becomes intolerable to you (causes an increase in pain or anxiety), let us know and we will advise your physician. We will also use a special mattress to relieve pressure areas and we will use heel protectors to prevent skin breakdown. On occasion, your physician may order blood work. If this becomes a concern to you or your family, let is know and we will advise your physician.

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