Preparing for your visit
Patient safety is our first priority at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, and each patient plays an important role on our health care team.
Bringing the following information with you to the hospital helps our health care team avoid delays in treatment and reduces the risk of medical errors often caused by a lack of information. Be sure to prepare this ahead of time in case your trip to the hospital is sudden.
- Current medications
- Pharmacies (with phone numbers) where you fill your prescriptions
- Medical conditions
- Allergies
Important information about yourself
- Keep a current list of your doctors and other health care professionals you see. It is also helpful to bring a list of the pharmacies that fill your prescriptions along with a telephone number for each.
- Keep a current list of your medical conditions including chronic illnesses as well as other conditions for which you have seen a doctor. It is difficult to remember this information when you are in a stressful situation. Keeping a list ahead of time helps ensure our team the most accurate information about your health.
- Frequently check this information to make sure it stays accurate and up-to-date.
Allergy information
Create a list of any allergies you have, along with what type of reaction occurs when you are exposed. Here are some examples you might include:
- Medication allergies or sensitivities
- Food allergies
- Latex
- Iodine
- Environmental allergies (hay fever, dust, mold, etc.)
Current medications
One of the most important pieces of information you can provide to your health care team is a current list of the medications you are taking. Not only does this help ensure you receive the best possible care and most appropriate treatment plan, but it is also crucial to keeping you safe. Your list should include prescription medications, as well as any over-the-counter medications you are taking. Include everything from aspirin and eye drops to vitamins and/or any dietary or herbal supplements. You should also include a list of any vaccinations you have received and the date they were given.
Be sure to include the following information for each:
Name of the medication, dosage and when you take it. Be sure to update your list each time a new medication is added or if the dosage amount changes. This should be done for both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Helpful Reminders:
- Bring all medications you are currently taking to the hospital with you.
- Do not put one medication in a bottle labeled for another.
- The health care team may ask when you last took your medicine.