What are some ways to advocate for patients who are unable to communicate their needs?

1 Know the patient's rights

Every patient has the right to be informed, involved, and respected in their health care decisions. This includes the right to have a surrogate decision-maker, such as a family member, friend, or legal guardian, who can speak on their behalf if they are unable to do so. As a patient advocate, you can help the patient and their surrogate understand their rights and responsibilities, and support them in communicating with the health care team. You can also help them access any resources or services that can assist them in their care, such as interpreters, social workers, or palliative care.

3 Collaborate with the health care team

As a patient advocate, you are part of the health care team that works together to provide the best possible care for the patient. You can collaborate with the health care team by sharing relevant information about the patient's medical history, preferences, values, and goals. You can also ask questions, seek clarification, and provide feedback to the health care team about the patient's condition, treatment options, and outcomes. You can also advocate for the patient's rights and wishes, and help resolve any conflicts or issues that may arise.

5 Educate and empower the patient and their surrogate

As a patient advocate, you can educate and empower the patient and their surrogate by providing them with accurate, relevant, and understandable information about the patient's condition, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options. You can also help them navigate the health care system, access resources and support, and understand their rights and responsibilities. You can also encourage and support the patient and their surrogate to participate in their care, ask questions, express their concerns, and seek a second opinion if needed.

6 Follow up and follow through

As a patient advocate, you should follow up and follow through with the patient and their surrogate, as well as the health care team, to ensure that the patient's needs are met and their care is coordinated. You can follow up by checking on the patient's progress, satisfaction, and feedback, and by providing them with any additional information or assistance they may need. You can follow through by monitoring the patient's outcomes, ensuring that their care plan is implemented and evaluated, and by advocating for any changes or improvements that may be needed.