Hospital Stay Handbook: A Guide to Becoming a Patient Advocate for Your Loved Ones

When Jari Holland Buck's husband became seriously ill, she stayed by his side and bravely fought for his life. Her steadfast attention to detail-questioning caregivers, researching medicines, and providing a positive, spiritually rich environment for healing-produced a medical miracle: his survival. The author's vivid experiences form the basis of this guide to becoming a patient advocate. Her life-saving lessons will help you choose the best hospital, develop a partnership with caregivers, prevent medical mistakes, and avoid caregiver burnout. Along with practical advice for enforcing patient rights, executing power of attorney, and avoiding inappropriate hospital charges, the author also explores how to bolster the body, mind, and soul of a critically ill loved one through prayer, positivity, and spiritual healing. Praise: "A must-read for any family caregiver. Jari Holland Buck dramatically brings to life challenges that family members face when a loved one is in the hospital. She proves that with a little knowledge, a lot of love, and by relentlessly asking questions, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best the health care system has to offer and truly become a respected member of the health care team." --Gary Edward Barg, Editor-in-Chief of Today's Caregiver magazine "I found Jari's book the best of the lot. It is written in a way that the reader can envision each crisis clearly. It is a first-hand account of what can go wrong in any hospital. It is not overshadowed by anger but gives a realistic account of the facts. I especially appreciated the checklists she created to help families and patients to not forget the steps that are needed to improve patient safety and the quality of care. I encourage patients, families, and medical professionals to read this valuable book." --Douglas Hall, principal PULSE of Florida (Patient Safety Advocate)