Hospital stays can carry serious risks, but many complications are preventable. In this practical session, advocates will learn how to help clients reduce the risk of medication errors, healthcare-associated infections, and patient falls—the three most common sources of preventable hospital harm. Participants will explore simple strategies for preparing clients before admission, coordinating support teams, and building collaborative relationships with hospital staff to improve safety and outcomes. Attendees will leave with actionable tools they can immediately apply when supporting clients during hospitalizations. This course has been approved for 1 General CE by the Patient Advocate Certification Board.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify the three most common sources of preventable hospital harm (medication errors, healthcare-associated infections, and patient falls) and explain evidence-based strategies advocates can use to help clients mitigate these risks.
- Apply a systematic preparation framework (equipment, safety in numbers, and relationship management) to improve client outcomes and reduce avoidable complications during hospital stays.
- Develop client-centered advocacy plans that leverage communication, problem-solving, and collaborative relationships with medical teams to prevent medical errors and enhance patient safety.
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