While at One of Our Hospitals

Valuables

We strongly urge you to leave your valuables such as jewelry at home or send them home with family members. You may have valuables locked in our safe during your stay; this may be done by contacting Security.

All hospitals are public places. Please take precautions to safeguard your personal property or valuables while you are here. The hospital cannot be held responsible for the loss of money or other personal property or valuables kept in your room or in your possession.

Your Care

After your physician, the person most familiar with your care is your nurse. Never hesitate to ask your nurse about any activity concerning your treatment or hospital policy. Your patient care team will assist you as needed with hygiene needs and dental care. If you are physically able to move about, we ask you to assume responsibility for your personal hygiene. If needed, your patient care team can assist you with your daily bath or shower.

Identification Bracelet

Your identification bracelet provides vital information to our staff. Please wear your identification bracelet at all times during your stay.

Bed Linens

Bed linens will be changed frequently as well as when your condition warrants. Please ask our staff members if you need a change of linens.

Nurse Call System

A call button is within your reach whenever you are in bed. Press the “nurse button” and a staff member will answer your call promptly.

Medication

Medications given to you while you are hospitalized are ordered by your physician. If you are having pain, nausea, or other feelings of discomfort, please tell your nurse. Be sure to tell your nurse if you are taking any medications at home (including vitamins and herbal medications). If you have questions regarding any of your medications, please ask your physician or nurse.

Dining

Your physician will prescribe a diet for you during your hospital stay. Our Food and Nutrition Services Department will assist you with your individual nutritional needs. Registered Dietitians can provide a detailed evaluation of your current nutritional status and help you in following your prescribed diet. Proper diet is an extremely important aspect of your recovery program. Your medical condition and personal tastes are given careful consideration in meal planning. If your physician has ordered a special diet such as low sodium, your choices may be somewhat limited. Your Nutrition Team will work with you to help select foods you may enjoy. For your health and well-being, we ask that you not bring food from home unless approved by your physician.

For food service questions, concerns or assistance, please contact the food services department.

Patient Representative

Your comfort and well-being are our first concern. As your advocate, we are here to personally assist you and your family in the following ways:

• Answer questions about Hospital procedures and policies
• Act as liaison between you, Hospital staff and Administration
• Address grievances you may encounter during your stay
• Listen to your suggestions and compliments about hospital services

Should you have a request, questions, grievances, or wish to extend a compliment, please call your Patient Representative at the telephone number listed on the inserts in this booklet.

Patient Education

Please feel free to ask your nurse if you or a family member have any questions regarding various tests, procedures, medications, or diet. Our staff will direct your question to the proper department and someone will be available to assist you with your needs.

Private Duty Nurse

A member of the patient’s family may make arrangements for a private duty nurse. The Nursing Office provides a listing of available private duty nurses. Because private duty nurses are not employees of the hospital, payment for their services is your (the patient’s) responsibility.

No Smoking Policy

Smoking is not permitted anywhere on LibertyHealth Hospital property by associates, visitors or patients.

This policy is consistent with New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services mandate for hospitals in New Jersey to provide a smoke free environment for our patients, visitors, employees and physicians.

First and second hand smoke cause cancer, lung disease, and heart disease. Smoking is the leading cause of hospital fires. Our smoke-free policy is one of the most effective ways we can help save lives.

Security Officers

For your safety, the hospital employs experienced security officers who are on duty around the clock patrolling the hospital, parking areas, and grounds.

Fire and Disaster Drills

The hospital periodically conducts fire and disaster drills. Drills help ensure your safety and keep our emergency skills sharpened at all times. At any time that a fire or safety drill is in progress, we ask that you return to your room and follow the nurse’s instructions. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS during drills or “a fire emergency” (Code Red).

Bed Rails

Bed rails may be raised for your protection. They must be secured in the upright position if the patient is sedated or sleeping. Please give us your cooperation by observing this rule. If you need assistance, please press your call button to signal for help or speak to your nurse.