Patient Information - Patient/Client Rights

Policy: The patient/client has the right to make informed decisions regarding his/her care.

Objective: To provide adequate information to permit, when possible or appropriate, the patient's/client's direct involvement in the development and revision of the care or service plan.

Procedure: Explain in appropriate detail to the patient/client, in terms he/she can understand, information relating to why the prescribed service or treatment pertains to his/her present condition.

Discuss with the patient/client what responsibilities, if any, he or she may have in the care process.

Explain to the patient/client the nature and purpose of any technical procedure that may be performed, as well as who will perform that procedure.

Inform the patient/client of any possible alternatives to the prescribed treatment that are appropriate.

If appropriate, consider the patient's/client's request when developing or revising a Plan of Care / Treatment / Service.

Inform the physician of the patient's/client's input, if appropriate, concerning possible care / treatment / service options.