It only takes a moment for something go wrong, and only a moment to learn that something has happened. If you need to take quick action to get your loved one or client to a hospital, are you--and are they--prepared?
In an emergency, with your adrenalin going, and the need for speed, it can be difficult to think rationally and clearly. It is easy to forget where you have placed important information which could be critical to saving a life. It may also take you time to remember the details, gather it together, and write it down.
Resolve to write an "Emergency Information Document" that can be taken with your loved one or client in an emergency. The following information is essential and should be included in the document:
1. The person's name and date of birth.
2.The names of all medications, the dosage and how frequently they are taken,
3. Current medical problems and important past medical problems.
4. Current treatments and equipment used. These include:
--oxygen
--dialysis
-- ostomies
-- pacemaker
-- wound care
-- skin care
5. Allergies, both to food and medication, and a record of adverse drug reactions including what the reaction was.
6. Risk factors, such as a risk for falls, for wandering, for confusion, memory loss or other cognitive impairments.
7. Communication or other special concerns, such as visual, hearing, or speech impairment, ability to speak English.
8.Family and other emergency contact people. This includes a list, in order, of substitute decision makers.
9. Physicians and other personnel involved.
10. Copies or indications of Representation Agreements, Powers of attorney,Do Not Resuscitate orders, or others.
This information should be accessible and be up to date. Medication and treatment lists should be revised regularly to make sure they are current. All phone numbers of contact people must be up to date as well.
A copy of this information should be kept in an envelope, and be placed in a prominent place in an elderly person's home, such as on the refrigerator. It should be clearly marked "Emergency Information for Mrs. -- ." A separate copy should be kept in the homes/offices of caregivers. If you do not have a copy, and your loved one or client is taken to hospital, you will have to go to their home to get it. This time lag could be critical.
We invite you to download Diamond Geriatrics' Emergency Information Document form from
www.diamondgeriatrics.com 's Eldercare Advice section
Family Communication in an Emergency
