Patient Information Guide

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Scan Me PATIENT INFORMATION GUIDE

Property of Forster Private Hospital patient Information

Contents Welcome from the Chief Executive Visitor Facilities 12 Officer (CEO) 3 Televisions 12 History 4 Newspapers, Magazines and Mail Delivery 12 Your Rights and Responsibilities 4 Free Wi-Fi for Admitted Patients 13 Quality in Health Care 6 Spiritual/Emotional Needs 13 Accreditation 6 Telephones 13 Emergency Procedures 6 Volunteers 13 Clinical Handover 6 Tests and Treatment 13 Nurse Call System 7 Valuables 16 Identification Bands 7 Smoking 16 The Unwell Patient 7 Shower/Water Temperature 16 Preventing Pressure Injuries in Hospital 7 Maintenance 16 On Your Own Two Feet 8 Day Leave 16 Manual Handling and Safe Lifting 8 Great Lakes Palliative Support Services Inc. 17 Infection Prevention 9 Pre-Admission Services 17 Meals and Food Safety 10 What to Bring with You on Admission to Medications and Pharmacy 10 Hospital 17

General Information 11 Discharge Procedures 18

Hospital Staff 11 Patient Satisfaction 18

Accommodation 11 Veterans’ Liaison Officer 19

Doctors Visiting Times 11 Facilities at Forster Private Hospital 19

Students in Training 11 Local Community Services for Your Information 22 Medical Record 12

Visiting Hours 12

2 patient Information

Welcome from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Our team at the Forster Private Hospital warmly welcome you to our hospital and thank you for the opportunity to care for you.

We are committed to providing you with the highest standard of care whilst also making your stay with us as comfortable as possible.

Our experienced and professional team will discuss with you all aspects of your treatment and will encourage you to be included in all decision making along the way. Please let us know if you have any particular needs or expectations throughout your stay and we will endeavor to meet your requirements.

Please feel comfortable talking to our doctor or other staff about any issues or concerns that may be causing you anxiety. We are all here to contribute to your care.

The purpose of this handbook is to provide you with information about the hospital and answer some of your questions. If there is anything further that you need, please ask.

Ben Uprichard. Regional Chief Executive Officer Mid North Coast, NSW

Forster would like to acknowledge the traditional Worimi people who are the custodians of this land, and to pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging

3 patient Information

History Your Rights and Responsibilities Cape Hawke Community Hospital was officially opened on 26 April 1957 and consisted of five Whilst in our care at Forster Private beds on the corner of Cross and Strand Streets, Hospital, you have the right to: now Townsend Street, Forster. • C onsiderate and respectful care, regardless Forster Private Hospital, in its current location of race, creed, sex or nationality. in South Street Forster, now has 64 beds. We • K now the name of the doctor who has serve the community with acute medical primary responsibility for coordinating services and a robust Rehabilitation Unit, your care, and the identity and functions of complete with gymnasium and hydrotherapy others who are involved in providing care. pool, multiple consulting suites, an Oncology Unit and two modern operating theatres. • Seek a second opinion. • R eceive information from your doctor, On Saturday, 21 November 2020, dignitaries in language you understand, regarding gathered to sample ‘roast beef and apple pie’ your illness, it’s likely course, the expected and commemorate the 50 Year Anniversary of treatment, the plans for discharge from the Forster Private Hospital taking residence on hospital and follow-up care. this Worimi land. • B e fully informed regarding your treatment, Dedication state of health, accepted alternative Forster Private Hospital would like to methods of treatment (including benefits acknowledge the traditional Worimi people and risks of each), and the consequences who are the custodians of this land, and to pay of refusing treatment – prior to giving our respects to their elders past, present and consent. Unless the law prohibits, you may emerging. refuse recommended treatment, tests or procedures and you may leave against the advice of your doctor, at your own risk, upon completion of discharge forms. • B e informed of estimated costs prior to any treatment. • R efuse to participate in medical studies or experimental treatment. • C onfidentiality of your information, unless written permission is provided by you or your representative, or it is required by law.

4 patient Information

• K now your discharge plan and any As a patient, you have the continuing health care you may require, responsibility to: including the time and location of • P rovide accurate and complete information appointments and the name of any doctor regarding matters relating to your health. who will be providing follow-up care. • R eport unexpected changes in your • Not be restrained, except as authorised by condition to staff. your physician, consented by your next of kin, or in an emergency when necessary to • A sk questions if you do not understand protect you or others from injury. your treatment plan or what is expected of you. • B e visited by people of your choice during daily visiting hours as established by the • F ollow the treatment plan recommended, hospital, send and receive personal mail, including following instructions of staff and be visited by clergy. involved in your care.

• R etain and use personal possessions, • M aintain appointments when you’re able as space permits, unless to do so would to do so, or inform the hospital/doctor if infringe on the rights of other patients or you’re unable to attend as planned. unless medically contra-indicated. • P rovide information concerning your ability • B e maintained in a safe and secure to pay for services. environment. • A cknowledge the consequences of • M ake complaints and have access to your actions by refusing treatment or assistance to resolve such complaints. instructions. • B e considerate of the rights of other patients and hospital personnel.

• B e respectful of hospital property and the property of other people in the hospital at all times.

5 patient Information

Quality in Health Care Accreditation

At Forster Private Hospital, we are Forster Private Hospital committed to the highest quality undertakes an external of care within a safe environment. While you certification of all services are receiving treatment, your safety is our directly related to the patient experience and primary concern. We want you to feel secure the hospitals governance structure. This is in and confident, and have trust in those caring line with OIS (Organisation of International for you. Standards) and the NSQHS Standards. This ensures we consistently deliver a high Our programs conform to all health standards, standard of care. fire codes and environmental regulations. In recognition of our commitment to Emergency Procedures excellence in quality patient care and customer service, Forster Private Hospital is In the event of an emergency, certified and operates a quality management you will hear an alarm sound. You system that complies with the requirements may hear a voice asking you to evacuate. If this of the Australian Council on Healthcare occurs, please remain in your room until a staff Standards (ACHS), incorporating the eight (8) member advises you what to do. Any visitors National Safety and Quality Health Service with you at the time should also remain with (NSQHS) Standards. you in your room. Please follow the directions of staff who are fully trained in emergency procedures. A staff member will accompany or direct you to a safe location, if required.

Clinical Handover

As part of the NSQHS Standards, patients are involved in clinical handover. We conduct our shift-to-shift handover at the patient’s bedside.

This enables the patient to be involved in the process of clinical handover and be consistently involved in their care.

6 patient Information

Nurse Call System Preventing Pressure Injuries in Hospital The Nurse Call system will be explained to you on arrival. There is a buzzer located next to Pressure injuries are areas of your bed and in the bathroom/shower for your damage to the skin that result from reduced convenience. Do not hesitate to press your mobility or prolonged bedrest. They can buzzer once whenever you need assistance, appear on any bony area where blood supply particularly at night. Nursing staff will respond may be impaired due to prolonged pressure to as quickly as possible. There is an EMERGENCY that area that reduces blood supply. BUZZER in your room for URGENT assistance only. There are a number of reasons why pressure injuries occur, including: Identification Bands • Pressure • Shearing On admission to the hospital, you • Friction will be required to wear an identification band on your wrist and your ankle. • Poor circulation • Moist/wet skin It is important that these bands are not removed during your stay, unless done so by • Poor diet/malnutrition a member of staff in the course of providing • P hysical condition/other medical treatment. You should have at least one ID conditions. band on at all times. There are ways to prevent these If you have any allergies, please notify the staff. pressure injuries from occurring, You will be required to wear a red allergy band including: to identify this to all staff caring for you. • Keeping active. Shift your position slightly every 20 minutes or so when in bed or The Unwell Patient sitting in a chair and avoiding lying flat on your back for long periods. Escalating your relative’s care • T he use of pressure relieving equipment If you are concerned about your relative’s care, (airflow mattresses), if deemed appropriate. please speak to the nurse looking after them. • Informing staff if you have sore areas. If you would like to speak to someone immediately about your relative’s care, please • T aking care of your skin. Keep your skin dry phone the Hospital Manager on: 0457 046 540. after washing, and moisturise if required.

Occasionally, patients can become rapidly and • Ea ting and drinking well. If you are unable critically unwell. If this occurs, please press the to eat a normal diet, our dietician is RED EMERGENCY button above the bed area. available to assist. You will have an immediate emergency team response.

7 patient Information

On Your Own Two Feet • Stand up slowly after lying down or sitting. • Sit on the side of the bed for a few minutes Preventing falls in hospital– before getting up to prevent feeling dizzy. information for patients and their families • T ake care when bending down and make sure you are steady before walking. Slips, trips and falls can happen to anyone, but they are more common and more significant • W hen walking in your room or in the ward, as we get older, because we are more likely to wear closed, non-slip slippers or flat shoes. injure ourselves. • T urn the light on so you can see clearly People often dismiss falls as ‘part of getting when you move in the room. older’ or ‘just not concentrating’, but they are • W hen you have a shower, leave the shower preventable. door slightly ajar to allow steam out so you Around one in three people aged 65 and older, can see. and living in the community, will fall at least • U se the handrails where available, when once this year. In Australia, falls among people walking in your room or ward. aged 65 years and older account for 40 per cent of all injury-related deaths. • W ear comfortable, firm-fitting shoes with a low, broad heel and soles that grip. Falls can also result in serious injuries with a loss of mobility and independence. • D on’t walk around in socks or ill-fitting slippers. The good news • A void leaving newspapers, cloths and bags The good news is that most falls in hospital on the floor. are preventable and injury from falls can be minimised. When you are admitted to Forster • D on’t be too proud to ask for help. You are Private, the nurse will assess the likelihood not bothering us when you ring the bell – that you might fall. This is called a Falls Risk we want to help. Assessment. The results are documented in your medical record so that everyone looking Manual Handling and Safe after you knows your risk of falling. Lifting

How you can help reduce your risk of Manual handling involves any activity falling: requiring the use of force to lift, lower, push, • A sk about the likelihood of falling and your pull, carry, move, hold or otherwise restrain an risk factors. object or person.

• K now what assist ance you require and Forster uses a safe manual handling system follow the instructions. If you have been in line with current best practice for patient requested to get help before getting out of safety. bed or going to the toilet or shower, please You will be assessed on a daily, or shift-by-shift ring the nurse call bell. basis to determine your level of mobility.

8 patient Information

This level will then determine the safest • T he Infection Control Coordinator technique for us to assist you to move investigates and educates to reduce about and, where required, determine what infections. equipment staff should use to safeguard • W e use specialised, approved disinfectants against injury to you or the staff. for cleaning in accordance with national All staff are trained in manual handling guidelines. techniques and are obliged to use these • W e place hand sanitiser dispensers in techniques. public areas, making it readily accessible to If you would like any further information or staff, patients, families and visitors. clarification, please ask to speak to the Nurse • I f additional precautions are required, staff Unit Manager. wear gloves, gowns, masks and goggles. Some equipment that you may encounter How can you and your visitors help? during your stay includes, but is not limited to: • W ash your hands carefully with soap and • Pelican belts water or use hand sanitiser upon entering • Slide sheets the hospital.

• Patient lifting devices • C over your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Clean your • Leg lifters hands afterwards. • Wheelchairs • R eport any infection you have had, • Commode chairs especially if you are still on antibiotics.

• Monkey bars • R econsider visiting if you have an illness, • Walking frames. such as a cough, cold or gastroenteritis. Hand hygiene Infection Prevention Hand hygiene is the single most important We are committed to developing factor in reducing the risk of cross-infection. and implementing effective infection We can unknowingly transmit germs from our prevention and control to minimise the risk to hands to others and the hospital environment. patients. To enable you to assist us, the hospital has What are we doing to further reduce provided hand rub in wall-mounted brackets infections? at each entry to the hospital, entry to wards and each patient’s bedroom. We request that, • W e watch, audit and measure how often upon entering and leaving the hospital, you staff wash their hands using soap and apply solution to your hands. water or hand sanitiser.

• W e routinely use gloves and specially sterilised equipment.

9 patient Information

Meals and Food Safety Many foods can be harmful if not prepared and stored appropriately, and the hospital Menus are delivered to your room cannot take responsibility for foods not each day for you to select your meals prepared onsite or stored appropriately by for the day. Completed menus are collected by qualified food handling staff. catering staff each morning. A member of the catering service team is available to assist you Medications and Pharmacy with menu selection if required. When you come to hospital, if you’re already Approximate meal times are as follows: on medication(s), you have the choice to: Breakfast 7.30am • Br ing those medications with you and Morning tea 10.00am they will be stored securely by the nursing Lunch 12.00noon staff, who will dispense them to you as Afternoon tea 2.00pm prescribed; or

Dinner 5.00pm • Br ing an up-to-date list of your existing Supper 6.30pm medications (leaving the actual Food allergies and food intolerances medications at home for your use after you are discharged) and Slade Pharmacy If you have a special dietary requirement, can provide your already prescribed our consultant dietician and diet aides are medications for you. available to assist you to select appropriate meals. Please advise the nursing staff if you If you choose to do this and these medications require assistance. are not covered by your private health insurance, you may receive an account. Food safety If you are prescribed new medications during Forster has an accredited Food Safety Plan in your stay in hospital, Slade will provide them place and would appreciate your assistance to and the cost will be covered by the hospital. maintain our high standards of food hygiene and food handling practices. Please note: it is hospital policy that staff cannot administer medication from a Webster- To do so, we ask that you: Pak or any dosette boxes. • Ea t your meals within the specified meal Please use your hospital stay as an opportunity time period. to ask the following questions about any new • Ask staff to reheat food in the microwave. or existing medications:

• I f relatives bring food into hospital, this • What is the name of the medicine? food must be appropriately stored in a • What does it do? labelled container and refrigerated. • How long do I have to take it?

• How does it work?

10 patient Information

• What side effects (if any) are likely? Accommodation • Will it interact with other drugs? Forster has mainly private rooms and a High • What if I miss a dose? Dependency Care Unit. Whilst every effort will be made to meet requests for a private room, The nursing staff will dispense your on occasions of high occupancy and clinical medication to you as prescribed by your demand, this may not be possible. We will, treating doctor. however, provide any requested room changes There are several items that can assist the as soon as practical during your stay. pharmacy in relation to accurately billing for your medicines and it is advisable that these Doctors Visiting Times all be brought to hospital with you: Staff can advise you of the times that • A ll your current medications and doctors normally visit the hospital. If you or prescriptions your relative wish to speak to your doctor • A ny concession cards (pension, concession, outside of these times, please notify staff and DVA, Safety Net) arrangements can be made to advise your • Safety Net printout from your pharmacy doctor. It is advisable to have a list of questions to ask your doctor. • Medicare card It is important to us that you participate fully in your care as this will enhance your recovery General and help to alleviate any of your concerns. Information Students in Training Hospital Staff Forster Private Hospital has agreements in place with many tertiary organisations All hospital staff are required to wear (including TAFE and Universities) for the identification at all times. Staff will introduce training and development of student health themselves to you by their given name. Please professionals. advise staff how you wish to be addressed. Whilst in hospital, you may be asked to A variety of staff will be involved with your discuss details of your condition and undergo care during your stay. If you have any issues or examinations by students who will be under concerns regarding staff caring for you, please direct supervision of a qualified professional. ask to speak to the Nurse Unit Manager. However, your consent is required, and should you choose not to participate, your right to do so is respected and acknowledged. Students in training are obliged under the Privacy Act to ensure discretion and confidentiality is maintained, as is any health professional/staff member throughout the hospital.

11 patient Information

Medical Record Televisions

A medical record is maintained for all patients. Each bed has a television which is tuned to all Access is strictly limited to those directly local TV stations. involved in your care and treatment. The Due to safety regulations, we would request contents of your medical record can only be that any electrical equipment brought into the released with your consent or, if required, by hospital be brought to the attention of staff. law. The medical record remains the property All electrical equipment used in the hospital is of the hospital. required to be tested and tagged prior to use. You are entitled to request access to information Forster Private Hospital holds Newspapers, Magazines and about you. The release of information is a Mail Delivery simple process allowing you to apply in writing with appropriate identification. A charge will A variety of newspapers are delivered daily to apply for copying and printing. It is advisable the ward area and are available for visitors and that a health professional be present if you patients on a share-basis. wish to view your record to adequately explain Magazines are available for purchase from the the content. hospital Kiosk. Visiting Hours Mail delivery will occur each day. If you require a letter to be posted, please ask the staff and Visiting hours are: this can be arranged for you. Stamps are • 10.00am until 1.00pm, and available for purchase from Reception. • 3.00pm to 8.00pm

Visiting hours are subject to change due to current changes related to COVID19. If changes occur, the altered hours will be displayed through out the hospital.

Visitor Facilities

There are free tea and coffee making facilities in the ward area and theatre waiting room for any visitors or friends that may wish to use them. We recommend that visitors take care when carrying hot liquids within the hospital.

There are fresh sandwiches, cake, and coffee facilities available in the from the Coffee Cart. This is open daily during the week.

Soft drinks are available in vending machines.

12 10 GREAT LAKES ADVOCATE Thursday September 17, 2020 greatlakesadvocate.com.au FORSTER PRIVATE HOSPITAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TOPTIPS FOR A SOLID Did you sleep well last night? SLEEP

IFYOU often feel tired or MOST adults need about sleepy and struggle to seven to eight hours concentrate during the sleep every night. Some day, you may suffer from a need more and some sleep-disordered breathing less. problem. Here are some sug- This is when your airway gestions to help you get narrows, possibly making a good night's sleep. you snore and causing you 1. Bed is for sleeping: to stop breathing, which is Electronic devices and known as sleep apnea. other distractions can Your airway may even interfere with your become totally blocked sleep. It is better not to causing what is called sleep with yourTV on. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. 2. Wind down and relax: Dr Krishan Gupta, Have a buffer zone Respiratory and Sleep before bedtime. Sort Medicine Specialist with out any problems Mayo and Forster Private well before going to Hospitals, explains that bed.This may mean Obstructive Sleep Apnea setting aside a 'worry is usually caused by the col- time' during the day. lapse of soft tissues when Exercise is fine, but not the muscles in the back of A sleep study called a as comfortable as possible depending on the cause diagnosis and successful too late in the evening. the throat and tongue relax polysomnogram, which to help you sleep while the or severity of your sleep treatment. 3. Your bedroom is during sleep.This may stop monitors your breathing, monitoring takes place. apnea. Simple treatments Please talk to your GP comfortable:You you breathing for short brainwaves, heart rate and If you sleep best in your can include changes to your if you often feel tired or should have a quiet, periods of time, waking you oxygen levels, can identify own home, you can choose sleep position, avoiding sleepy, struggle concen- dark room with up from a sound sleep. if you have sleep apnea. a Home SleepTest. alcohol before sleeping or trating, or experience poor comfy bedding and If this keeps happening, The most thorough form These are organised losing a little weight. memory throughout the temperature control. you can have very poor of polysomnogram can be locally by Sleep Dynamics You might benefit from day.A referral to the local 4. Alcohol, caffeine quality sleep. done by spending the night and involve you being fitted wearing a splint or a sleep clinics and Sleep and cigarettes to be Unfortunately, 75% of in a sleep clinic. with a portable device that portable and easily-fitted Specialists at Mayo and avoided: Alcohol may severe sleep breathing Local sleep clinics are run monitors you while you're device that helps keep Forster Private Hospitals help you to get off to disorder cases remain at Mayo and Forster Private sleeping. your airways clear while could be life-changing or sleep, but will disrupt undiagnosed. Hospitals where you are What are the treatment sleeping. even life-saving. your sleep during the How do you find out if you given a private room and options? Sleep apnea sufferers For more information night. suffer from sleep apnea? invited to make the room Treatment options vary report amazing results after visit forsterprivate.com.au. patient Information

Free Wi-Fi for Admitted If you have a specific request for your own Patients Minister of Religion or spiritual guide to attend Poor sleep can mean poor health the hospital, please advise the staff, who can If you As an admitted patient, you have free access to make appropriate arrangements.

• still feel tired or have headaches when you wakeour up Wi-fi network. • have trouble concentrating or need naps during the day Telephones • are told you snore loudly and seem to gasp forStaff air can assist you to gain access, or if you a sleep test could help identify simple ways to helpwould you improve like to do it yourself, follow these steps: your sleep Telephones are provided at each bedside Continued poor sleep can lead to or worsen mental• healthC onnect issues, heartto Forster – PATIENT, which will for free local calls. To make a local call, press problems and chronic diseases such as diabetes. It is important to speak to your GP about having a sleepbring test, eitherup the in your following screen. ‘0’ and then the required number. Should own home or at our sleep clinic. you experience any difficulties, please ask a member of staff for assistance. Now accepting Sleep Study Patients at Forster Private Hospital For more information and to get a referral, contact your GP. www.forsterprivate.com.au 5667725 TA UR Number Volunteers Volunteers are an integral part of the service Date Of Birth DDMMYYYY we provide at Forster Private Hospital.

Connect to WIFI The Friend of Forster Pink Ladies visit daily and sell toiletries and snacks. Please have your money ready for collection at the time of sale. • En ter the UR Number, which is your Medical record number and is printed at Tests and Treatment the top right of your patient wristband (or ask hospital staff for your number). Occasionally, patients are required to attend • En ter your Date of Birth in DDMMYYYY external facilities for tests/scans that cannot format (eg. 23 July 1966 = 23071966). be provided at Forster. If you are well enough to travel via car, private transport may be • Click on ‘Connect to WiFi’. arranged with a family member or hospital • You should now be connected. transport may be available. If this is not appropriate for your condition, an ambulance If you have any problems at all, ask staff for may be required. help. You may experience longer-than-expected Spiritual/Emotional Needs times for tests and scans performed outside of the hospital. This can be due to ambulance Coming into hospital can often be an transport scheduling. However, we work emotional experience. Emotional and spiritual closely with the NSW Ambulance Service to health is equally as important as physical minimise any delays. health. Various denominations of clergy regularly visit Forster to provide spiritual and emotional comfort.

13 Vision Statement Forster Allied Health Network (FAHN), provides the community with a multi-disciplinary team of Allied Health experts that will assist you with all your health goals. FAHN is available to all public and private patients and we welcome our growing community to access our FORSTER Communityteam of Outpatientexperts. Rllied Health Network Services COMMUNITY OUTPRTIENT SERVICES

Payments ForsterForster Allied Health Allied Network (FAHN),Health provides Network you with a multi- (FAHN)

Payment options include: disciplinary team of Allied Health experts that will assist you with all Private health fund rebates throughyour H ICAPShealth goals. Conveniently located at Forster Private Hospital,

Medicare Allied Health plans bulkDolphin billed Suites, our team will work with you to rehabilitate, build

Workers Compensation approvedstrength providers and adapt to Jlife after surgery or injury. j Clinic Hours Department of Veterans AffairsAmong servicesExercise our services are:Physiology: Services Available: Other compensable options may• bePhysiotherapy availableWhether you’re recovering from injury or illness or just Eftpos or cash available o 1.1 consultations o Pain management Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm o Vwantestibular to assessment improve & rehabilitation your health and ﬁtness, our expert Physiotherapy • Exercise Physiology MAIN ENTRANCE o 1.1Accredited consultations Exerciseo Gym based Physiologists exercise classes (AEP) will provide the - 1:1 consultations Home Visits and Nursing Home Rehabilitation I o Rehabilitation following injury or illness • Occupationalultimate Therapy exercise prescription tailored to your individual - Group based therapy We are a mobile provider of all our allied health o Homecondition visits ando Eneeds.quipment prescription - Hydrotherapy consultations and programs o Cognitive assessmentsForster services, and therefore you can access our services at • Psychology Private Hospital 6 o Clinical psychology support for children/adolesFORSTER - Vestibular assessment and rehabilitation your workplace or place of residence. Physiotherapy:healthe.care RII ed Healtr Networ-< Ask our Allied Health Staff for more information Forster - Pain management This may be beneﬁcial for: or call 6555 1300.Dolphin Suites, Breckenridge St, Forster NSW 2428 FORSTER Our teamT: 02 are 6555 1300 experts F: 02 6555 1364 at assessing, diagnosingPrivate Hospital and Rllied Health Network E: [email protected] - Musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy Hydrotherapy ® tllC/\PS 0 - Residents in their own homes or nursing homes with treating a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological COMMUNITY OUTPRTIENT SERVICES Keep Yourself Active low mobility levels conditions. Our Physio will identifyPayments the cause pain and Forster’s ‘Keep Yourself Active’ hydrotherapy classes are Paymentdesigned options include: Exercise Physiology - Those who don’t drive weakness and work with you to employPrivate health fund a rebates wide through H ICAPS range of to aid in your recovery process. Medicare Allied Health plans bulk billed

Workers Compensation approved providers J - 1:1 consultations We keep the water between 32°C and 34°C so you’ll always be j - Anyone wanting to participate in Rehabilitation in hands on and exercise based treatmentsDepartment of Veterans to Affairs assist services you to comfortable. Other compensable options may be available - Gym based exercise classes Hydrotherapygreat promotes:outcomes and return to a betterEftpos or cash availablequality of life. the home • Greater joint and muscle movement (due to the buoyancy - Hydrotherapy consultations and programs MAIN ENTRANCE - Workplace safety/ergonomic assessments water provides). • IncrOccupationaleased blood circulation. Therapy: I - Rehabilitation following injury or illness • Increased muscle strength (due to the resistance providedOur byOccupational the water). Therapists (OT) assist you by assessing Call us and discuss how our mobile service can assist • Improved balance. Forster Private Hospital 6 your current conditions then provide expert guidance on FORSTEROccupational Therapy You can access our hydrotherapy classes with a referral healthe.care RII ed Healtr Networ-< you, your family or your business. from: Forster how your activities or environment can be modiﬁed andDolphin Suites, Breckenridge St, Forster NSW 2428 - Home visits • A specialist. T: 02 6555 1300 F: 02 6555 1364 Private Hospital • Yourimproved general practitioner. to allow you to continue being independentE: [email protected] ® tllC/\PS 0 • An Allied Health professional. - Equipment prescription • A rdoingeferral and all D904 the request activities (for Department you love. of Veterans Affairs Gold Card holders). - Upper limb rehabilitation For more information speak to a Forster Private Allied Health team member or - Cognitive assessments call 6555 1300.

Groups - Hydrotherapy - Gym based

10 GREAT LAKES ADVOCATE Thursday September 17, 2020 greatlakesadvocate.com.au FORSTER PRIVATE HOSPITAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

TOPTIPS FOR A SOLID Did you sleep well last night? SLEEP

Poor sleep can mean poor health If you

• still feel tired or have headaches when you wake up • have trouble concentrating or need naps during the day • are told you snore loudly and seem to gasp for air a sleep test could help identify simple ways to help you improve your sleep Continued poor sleep can lead to or worsen mental health issues, heart problems and chronic diseases such as diabetes. It is important to speak to your GP about having a sleep test, either in your own home or at our sleep clinic.

Now accepting Sleep Study Patients at Forster Private Hospital For more information and to get a referral, contact your GP. www.forsterprivate.com.au10 GREAT LAKES ADVOCATE Thursday September 17, 2020 greatlakesadvocate.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE 5667725

FORSTER PRIVATE HOSPITAL TA

TOPTIPS FOR A SOLID Did you sleep well last night? SLEEP

Poor sleep can mean poor health If you

Now accepting Sleep Study Patients at Forster Private Hospital For more information and to get a referral, contact your GP. www.forsterprivate.com.au 5667725 TA patient Information

Valuables Patients who wish to leave the grounds to smoke must advise staff of their whereabouts We strongly recommend that valuables such and organise for a family member or friend to as jewellery and laptop computers not be accompany them for safety reasons. brought into hospital with you. Only small amounts of cash should be held on your Shower/Water Temperature possession. Items such as dentures and spectacles can be easily misplaced and should Many patients comment regarding the be placed in an appropriate container or temperature of the water whilst showering. glasses case with your name clearly marked. The hot water temperature is determined in guidelines set by the NSW Department of Whilst we make all attempts to keep Health. The water temperature must be no your valuables safe, we do not take any hotter than 42 degrees celsius for adults and responsibility for the loss of valuables whilst 38.5 degrees for children. you are in hospital. The hospital does provide a safe for the Maintenance security of valuable items and cash, should you require this during your admission. Please Every effort is made to maintain the hospital ask a member of staff if you need to place in the best possible condition. We request that valuables in safe keeping. patients notify staff if they become aware of anything that requires maintenance attention. Smoking Day Leave Forster is a smoke-free environment with smoking prohibited on hospital premises and Under certain circumstances, your doctor may grounds. Patients who are smokers are advised allow you day leave from hospital. We would to discuss this with the nursing staff on appreciate if you could return to Forster by admission. Your doctor can prescribe nicotine 8.00pm, prior to the nightly lockdown of the replacement therapy to assist you to not hospital. However, if this is not possible then smoke during your hospitalisation. Should you we would ask that you advise the staff of your choose to continue to smoke, you will need to expected return time for security purposes. leave the hospital premises to do so.

Staff are not permitted to accompany patients who choose to leave the premises to smoke and, as such, patients who do so are placing themselves at increased risk of adverse consequences.

16 patient Information

Great Lakes The reception staff at Forster will make any Palliative necessary pre-admission appointment. Support What to Bring with You on Services Inc. Admission to Hospital Our charity raises funds to provide financial • Health fund card (if applicable) assistance to support palliative patients and their carers in the Great Lakes area. • Veteran Affairs card (if applicable)

Services include: • I nsurance details for workers compensation or third-party claims (if applicable) • Extra nursing and domiciliary services; • P ension card or health care card (if • F inancial assistance for medications, respite applicable) care, etc.; • P harmaceutical Benefits card or Safety Net • L oaning specialised equipment to enable number patients to remain in their own home for as long as possible; and • Letter or admission forms from your doctor

• Oncology services, including: • X-rays

o Financial assistance to develop and • Day clothes (if appropriate) support oncology services in Forster • Night attire Private Hospital, and • Dr essing gown and slippers (overnight o A wig service. only) All donations to the Great Lakes Hospice are • T oiletries (eg. soap, toothbrush and tax deductible. For more information, please toothpaste) call 0437 830 818. • Sanitary pads (if necessary) Pre-Admission Services • Tissues and personal items

You may be required to attend our pre- • Favourite toy or cuddly object for a child admission clinic prior to your surgery to • Walking aids/prosthesis if required ensure you have a full understanding of your • Glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, etc. procedures, length of stay, and necessary requirements for your hospitalisation. Your • M edications in original boxes with labels/ discharge needs can also be discussed at this directions. time.

You may have tests arranged by your surgeon or physician (as required), and arrangements for further tests may be also arranged through the Pre-Admission Clinic.

17 patient Information

Discharge Procedures Patient Satisfaction

Your discharge planning will Feedback commence upon admission and We strive to meet your expectations; will continue to be planned throughout however, if you have any feedback or you are your hospital stay. You will be involved in not satisfied with your treatment, we have the planning of your discharge. If you have procedures in place to assist you in providing any concerns regarding your discharge plan, feedback. please discuss these with the Nursing Unit Manager. Our discharge time is 10.00am daily. Your first step should be to let staff know of the issues and if you are not happy with the At the time of discharge, your nurse will: outcome, you should ask to speak to the Nurse • R eturn to you any medication and Unit Manager or After-Hours Manager. prescriptions, including any new If you would like to speak to someone medications to be continued after your immediately and in confidence regarding discharge. issues of service or care received, please speak • Return all x-rays and other scans. with the After-Hours Hospital Manager.

• A ssist you to finalise any follow-up Feedback can also be sent via email: appointments and/or services that may be [email protected] required by you after discharge. We value your feedback in relation to all • A ssist you in arranging transportation aspects of our services. We appreciate any home (if required). feedback you may have as to how we may improve our services. • A sk you to review and sign your discharge papers with your discharging nurse. • T his can be done via our impressions cards, which are located in each room. • Check your bedroom locker to ensure you have not left any belongings. • Y ou can also speak directly to the Nursing Unit Manager. If you have any concerns after your discharge regarding your condition or progress, it is Cemplicity Patient Survey advisable to contact your treating doctor. We encourage patients to tell us about their experiences in our hospitals. This feedback helps to guide important improvements in the care and services we provide. It is also used to make sure our hospitals are meeting or exceeding industry standards.

18 patient Information

A week or two after you go home, you will • C oordinating DVA client visiting and receive an invitation to participate in our information services, and establishing and experience survey. Please note that taking part maintaining communication and linkages is voluntary–you can choose not to do so. between the hospital and the veteran community in conjunction with ex-service If you do participate, we thank you for your organisations; and valuable time. We would also like to assure you that your responses will be anonymous • Ensur ing the Veteran community is made and your privacy protected. We will share your aware of the range of services, programs, contact details only, so you may receive the and facilities available at the hospital. invitation to complete our online survey.

Of course, we welcome feedback at any time. Facilities at Forster Private If you would like to comment on our hospital Hospital or services separately from the survey, this • Acute, Medical and Surgical Wards can be done any time via our website–visit www.healthecare.com.au and click on, ‘Find a • Rehabilitation Unit Hospital’. • Hydrotherapy Pool

If you are a patient currently in hospital, click • Day Rehabilitation Therapy Programs on ‘Patients’, then ‘Patient Feedback’ and follow the link. • Keep You Active “KYA” Programs

For feedback from outside the hospital, click • Oncology Unit ‘Contact’ and complete the form. • Operating Theatres

• Dolphin Suites Consulting Rooms Veterans’ Liaison Officer • Sleep Study Clinics Forster has a visiting veterans’ liaison person. • Allied Health This service is for entitled persons, their families and carers, ex-service organisations o Physiotherapy and DVA, with particular regard to resolution o Occupational Therapy of concerns and problems. The visiting officer can refer to the Nursing Unit Manager issues o Exercise Physiology related to: o Social Work

• P re-admission and discharge planning o Speech Pathology support; o Clinical Psychology • A ssisting with coordinating and o Dietetics streamlining care; o Radiology Services • R eferring patients to appropriate services or resources; o Pathology Services

19 My healthcare rights

This is the I have a right to: second edition of the Access Australian Healthcareservicesandtreatmentthatmeetsmyneeds Charter of Healthcare Safety Rights. R e c e i v e safeandhighqualityhealthcarethatmeetsnationalstandards B e caredforinanenvironmentthatissafeandmakesmefeelsafe These rights apply to all people in all places where health Respect care is provided B e treatedasanindividual,andwithdignityandrespect in Australia. H a v e myculture,identity,beliefsandchoicesrecognisedandrespected

The Charter describes what you, Partnership or someone you care A s k questionsandbeinvolvedinopenandhonestcommunication for, can expect when M a k e decisionswithmyhealthcareprovider,totheextentthatI receiving health care. chooseandamableto I n c l u d e thepeoplethatIwantinplanninganddecision-making Information C l e a r informationaboutmycondition,thepossiblebenefitsandrisks ofdifferenttestsandtreatments,soIcangivemyinformedconsent R e c e i v e informationaboutservices,waitingtimesandcosts B e givenassistance,whenIneedit,tohelpmetounderstandand usehealthinformation A c c e s s myhealthinformation B e toldifsomethinghasgonewrongduringmyhealthcare,howit happened,howitmayaffectmeandwhatisbeingdonetomake caresafe Privacy H a v e mypersonalprivacyrespected H a v e informationaboutmeandmyhealthkeptsecureandconfidential Give feedback P r o v i d e feedbackormakeacomplaintwithoutitaffectingtheway thatIamtreated H a v e myconcernsaddressedinatransparentandtimelyway S h a r e myexperienceandparticipatetoimprovethequalityofcare andhealthservices PUBLISHED JULY 2019 For more information ask a member of staff or visit safetyandquality.gov.au/your-rights Top Tips for Safe Health Care

What you need to know for yourself, your family or someone you care for.

Ask questions 1 You have the right to ask questions about your care.

Findgoodinformation 2 Not all information is reliable. Ask your doctor for guidance.

Understandtherisksandbenefits 3 Find out about your tests and treatments before they happen. Listallyourmedicines Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need more information about 4 the medicines you are taking.

Confirmdetailsofyouroperationbeforehand 5 Ask to be told who will be doing your procedure and what will happen to you.

Askaboutyourcareafterleavinghospital 6 Ask for a written outline of your treatment and what should happen after you get home.

Knowyourrights 7 You have a number of rights as a patient. Read our guide to find out what they are.

Understandprivacy 8 Your medical information is confidential. You can ask to see your medical record.

Givefeedback 9 Feedback helps health professionals spot when improvements can be made. Downloadourfreebookletat: www.safetyandquality.gov.au/toptips Local Community Services for Your Information

The following pages contain information on a curated range of local community services chosen to help you and your visitors during and after your stay.

Though a service’s feature in the publication doesn’t imply an endorsement on behalf of the hospital, we want to thank these service providers for their support, without which this publication would not be possible.

Please take the time to look through their services and consider their usefulness to you.

hospitalguide.com.au A locally run, not-for-profit NDIS Approved organisation, servicing your Veterans Home Care Approved community for over 30 years... Pensioner Rates

% 6555 8977 Please call our friendly staff to discuss your needs • Building Service Select option 1 • Care Service Select option 2 Building & Care Services include: Care Services Maintenance • Personal Care • Change Light Bulbs • In-home Respite • Replace Tap Washers • Meal Preparation • Pruning and Gardening • Transport and Shopping Assistance • Lawn Mowing • Housekeeping • Rubbish Removal • Welfare Checks • Yard Tidy-Ups • Social Support • Window/Gutter Cleaning • General Repairs and Maintenance Minor Modifications • Grab and Hand Rails Major Modifications • Handheld Showers • Bathroom Modifications • Ramps, Wedges, Steps and Paths • Stair Lifts • Lever Taps • Ramp Access • Lever Door Handles • Bidets • Key Safes

Level 2/1 Manning Street (Bridgepoint) Tuncurry NSW 2428 %[email protected] ABN: 90746695414 FORSTER

Powers of Attorney Guardian Appointments Wills Estate Disputes Personal Injury Claims Total & Permanent Disability Claims Insurance & Superannuation Claims Family Law Conveyancing STACKS FORSTER 6554 7766 [email protected]

Funeral directors serving the community of Forster Tuncurry, NSW – Our family caring for your family – Family owned & operated – For an appointment, please phone (02) 6555 3500

80 Kularoo Drive Forster NSW 2428 % 02 6555 3500

www.tranquillityfunerals.com.au We remain here for you At Anglican Care, we know that even during times of crisis our community still needs quality aged care services. Now, more than ever, we understand the vital importance of continuous, vigilant infection control practices and highly trained, caring staff. Whether you need a home care package to support you to remain independent at home, or 24-hour care in a residential home, Anglican Care is here for you.

Our Mid Coast Residential Aged Care Homes are located at • Storm Village - Taree • Bishop Tyrrell Place - Cundletown • Cedar Wharf Lodge - Bulahdelah • Mirrabooka Place - Gloucester

Call us today for all your aged care needs 1800 733 553 www.anglicancare.com.au

HOME CARE I RESIDENTIAL CARE I RETIREMENT LIVING ALL PATHOLOGY REQUEST FORMS ACCEPTED

Forster Taree Region Locally managed and operated pathology collection centres serving the Manning and Great Lakes Communities

• Local Taree Laboratory ensuring Collection Centre Locations: accurate and timely results for your TAREE PHONE pathology testing 2 Potaroo Drive 6552 0094 67 Wynter Street 6552 3344 84 Albert Street 6552 4388 • 13 Accredited Collection Centres 68 Chatham Street 6552 3382 conveniently located at Forster, 134 Pulteney Street 6553 5855 WINGHAM Taree, Old Bar, Wingham, 3/20 Isabella Street 6553 5855 Hallidays Point, Tuncurry and Pacific FORSTER Palms 3/20 South Street 6554 9789 29 Breckenridge Street 6554 7129 19 Manning Street, Tuncurry 6555 2590 • No appointment necessary OLD BAR 6/46 East / Old Bar Road 6557 4984 PACIFIC PALMS • Home visit service 5/208 Boomerang Drive 6552 9047 (available to qualifying patients) HALLIDAY’S POINT 1/555 Blackhead Road 6554 7129

For more information and updates please visit: www.laverty.com.au