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In This Issue:
Ask Yourself: “Do you know how patient learning needs are met?” The assessment of learning needs takes place at the point of entry to the BWH system, which is typically in the primary care practices, the Pre-Admitting Test Center (PATC) or the Emergency Department. Each of these sites has systems in place for documenting the assessment of learning needs.
In the event that a patient is being hospitalized, a BWH Patient Assessment form is completed which includes specific questions about learning needs, interests and preferences. Ongoing assessments are made throughout the hospitalization and documented on patient care flow sheets, pathways, progress notes and discharge instructions.
The initial plan of care is documented on the patient assessment form. Each patient is provided with information based upon his or her capability. The content and resources used to teach patients and families are defined in the clinical service standards for each patient care area.
Visit www.bwhpikenotes.org/jcaho/default.cfm#coundown to learn more about this topic and any other “Countdown to JCAHO” article as mentioned in other issues of BWH Bulletin.
From now until the January 2004 JCAHO Survey, a weekly on-line “Ask Yourself” article series will be available at www.bwhpikenotes.org It is important for all staff to familiarize themselves with the content of these articles and to be prepared to answer related questions from a JCAHO Surveyor during the Survey.