News from DACNW
For those with Parkinson’s disease, or other chronic health issues, a stay in the hospital can present a challenge. There can be problems that you do not expect or are not prepared to handle, said Pam Kohlmeier, MD, JD, FACEP (“Dr. Pam”) in her recent talk to the Peer2Peer Parkinson’s support group, but you can help diminish stress and improve safety by careful planning.
Everyone knows to bring their health insurance card when they go to the hospital, said Dr. Pam, but there are other important items to take: a copy of your most recent medical history; a list of your medications; and copies of all applicable legal documents: medical advance directive, living will, POLST form, and a health care power of attorney. Put the information in a binder separated by categories, such as legal documents, labs, doctor visits, test results, medications, medical devices, etc. Make two copies, leave one at home as a backup. Or you can save this information on your cellphone.
Medication dispensing is an issue that should also be prepared for, says Dr. Pam. Doctors, nurses, and other clinical staff do not always know what medications are unsafe for people with Parkinson’s, including which drugs may interact with Parkinson’s medications. There are drugs that when given to a person with Parkinson’s can make them sick or can cause bad reactions with the ones they are already taking. The Hospital Safety Guide, a free publication published by the Parkinson’s Foundation, provides a tear-out list of safe and contraindicated medications specific to Parkinson’s disease. It’s designed to decrease the risk of harmful interactions.
Tear out or photograph the safe and contraindicated medications list from the Guide to bring to show the medical staff. Be sure they put a copy in your records, and make sure any doctor in charge of your hospital care sees it. Always keep a copy in your wallet to share anytime you have a hospital or medical office visit.
Another challenge can occur when a hospitalized Parkinson’s patient seeks to stay on the strict schedule of their Parkinson’s medications. The hospital staff may not realize how important the timing of the Parkinson’s medication is. Bring your own prescription meds to ensure the medication is available (not all hospitals have these medications on hand). Let the medical staff know you have them. Some hospitals may let you administer the medication yourself while others will want the medical staff to give them to you. Ask your doctor to write in your chart that you should be allowed to keep your own medication so that you can be sure they are taken on schedule. The doctor should emphasize that your medications are taken on time. Let the hospital staff know if you have swallowing issues or use a device, such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) or Duopa pump.
Careful planning can help you avoid misunderstandings that could compromise your care. You and your healthcare providers ultimately want the same thing–for you to have a healthy and safe experience while in the hospital.
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