Rhode Island Hospital

Participating in Your Care

You are the most important member of your health care team.

We want you to feel comfortable asking questions and sharing your concerns with us. We offer the following information as a guide.

  • Write down any questions you have for physicians or other care providers and record the answers. Remember that no question is unimportant or silly. If something is on your mind or you don’t understand something, we want you to ask.
     
  • If you are having surgery, be sure you and your doctor discuss the details of the procedure and that you understand what to expect.
     
  • Be sure all medications you take are intended for you. Before your nurse administers medicine, ask what it is.
     
  • If possible, designate one family member to interact with our medical staff. This person can then pass along information to other family and friends.
     
  • Be sure to share all your important health information with your health care team. Please bring a copy of your advance directive or living will with you to the hospital.
     
  • If you wish to stop smoking, please ask your nurse about the smoking cessation counseling offered at the hospital.