6 Patient Safety Tips for Long-Term Hospital Stays

At times, patients may need to stay in hospitals for longer periods ranging from weeks to months. This can be due to complex medical conditions, post-operative care, or rehabilitation. While sometimes necessary, long-term hospital stays can be daunting and stress-inducing for patients and their families. They can experience physical discomfort from limited mobility or prolonged bed rest, along with emotional distress from being away from family or coping with the demands of their illness and treatment. Patients are also at risk of healthcare-associated infections, falls, and other injuries like bed sores.

In a Singapore hospital, ensuring patient safety is a priority and a key component in the promotion of patient recovery and well-being. They also recognise how patient cooperation and proactiveness can help mitigate risks and contribute to their healing. 

If you or someone you know will need extended hospitalisation, here are some tips for patient safety:

Maintain Personal Hygiene

Because patients are exposed to various pathogens in hospitals, they’re vulnerable to infections during long-term confinements. One way of preventing this situation is through maintaining personal hygiene. For caretakers in particular, it’s crucial to regularly wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers before and after patient care activities, meals, and restroom use. For the patients, regular brushing and mouth rinsing can reduce the risk of oral infections. Additionally, bathing regularly with antiseptic solutions or medicated soap can enhance hygiene levels and promote one’s comfort during long-term stays.

If the patient underwent surgery, they must follow hospital protocols for wound care and surgical site care to prevent the introduction and spread of infectious agents. Make sure to avoid contact with contaminated surfaces and adhere to isolation precautions when necessary. These can further minimise the risk of hospital-acquired infections.

Prevent Falls

For patients with reduced mobility or undergoing treatment that affects their balance, falls and related injuries is a primary concern. Caretakers must prioritise fall prevention strategies to ensure safety during a prolonged hospital stay. This includes keeping pathways clear of obstacles and using non-slip footwear. Patients should also use mobility aids like walking frames or wheelchairs based on the recommendations of their healthcare provider. 

When it comes to moving around their rooms or within the hospital, encourage patients to call for assistance. This is particularly important when getting out of bed or when using the bathroom, as these are common causes of accidental falls. 

Pay Attention to Nutrition

Proper nutrition is also essential for supporting patient recovery and overall well-being during long-term hospital stays. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help support immune function and promote healing. With this in mind, patients need to adhere to dietary recommendations; caretakers, on the other hand, must take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Staying hydrated is just as crucial. Dehydration can exacerbate medical conditions and hinder recovery progress, so ensure that patients are able to drink an adequate amount of fluids throughout the day.

Take Care of Their Mental Well-Being

Aside from their physical health, a patients’ mental health can also be affected during prolonged hospitalisation. They might experience feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which can hinder complete recovery. To help counter this, staying connected with loved ones is vital. Fortunately, there are now various virtual communication tools that can be used to get in touch with friends and family. If possible and when permitted, schedule personal visits for in-person interaction. Engaging in relaxation techniques can also help alleviate stress and promote a sense of calmness. Some practices include deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to soothing music. 

In addition to these strategies, patients can take advantage of support services offered by hospitals. They can ask their healthcare providers about counselling, spiritual care, or recreational activities available. These can help address patients’ emotional needs and foster resilience during challenging times.

Practice Medication Safety

Singapore hospitals have stringent processes in place to ensure medication safety. That said,  patients still need to actively participate in medication management.This involves understanding their prescribed medications, dosages, and administration schedules. Patients should also verify the identity and purpose of each medication before taking it. It’s also a good idea to organise their medications using pill organisers to keep track of their regimen and avoid missed doses or duplicate prescriptions. If they or their caretakers notice any discrepancies or concerns, patients must report them to their healthcare providers promptly.

Being more involved in one’s care regimen can inspire feelings of autonomy and a sense of control over their health. This can then translate to faster recovery times.

Openly Communicate with Healthcare Providers

In line with actively participating in their treatment and recovery, patients need to communicate with their healthcare providers. During their hospital stays, patients should feel confident about asking questions, seeking clarification about treatment plans, and voicing any concerns or preferences regarding their safety and care. At the same time, they need to have a collaborative attitude with the healthcare teams. It will foster trust and enhance their overall hospital experience.

Ensuring patient safety is a shared responsibility between healthcare providers, patients, and caretakers. As healthcare providers in Singapore aim to perform their duties excellently, the patient’s cooperation is crucial. Take note of these tips to safeguard a patient’s well-being, promote a positive recovery experience, and navigate through the challenges of long-term hospital stays.