During Your Visit
Female Patient sitting up in a swing bed. There is a basket full of flowers and roses mixed in together on her bedside table.
Care and Support, Close to Home
Crittenden Community Hospital operates as a Rural Emergency Hospital, providing emergency care, observation services, and outpatient care. Our team is committed to making your time with us as comfortable and informed as possible.
Understanding Your Care
Your healthcare provider will determine the services you need based on your condition. Observation care allows our team to monitor your condition, provide treatment, and determine the next steps in your care. Observation is an outpatient service, even if your care includes an overnight stay.
Care Management and Planning Your Next Steps
Our care team helps patients and families plan for continued care after leaving the hospital. Depending on your needs, this may include information about follow-up appointments, community resources, family support, or services available at another facility.
If you have concerns about transportation, medications, support at home, or other needs, please tell your nurse and ask about Care Management assistance.
Your Healthcare Wishes
If you have an advance directive, such as a living will or a document naming someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf, please bring a copy or ask a family member to provide one.
Let your care team know about your healthcare wishes and whom you would like involved in discussions about your care. Ask your nurse if you have questions or would like additional information.
For Your Safety
An identification bracelet helps our team confirm your identity before providing care. Please keep it on throughout your visit and tell staff about any medication or other allergies.
You may see staff wearing gloves, masks, or other protective equipment to help prevent the spread of infection.
Ask for assistance before getting up if you feel weak, dizzy, or unsteady. During a fire drill or other safety announcement, please follow staff instructions.
Medications
Bring a current list of your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Tell your care team about any medicines you have already taken that day.
If you bring medications from home, let your nurse know. Do not take them during your care unless your healthcare team has approved them.
Personal Belongings and Valuables
Please leave valuables at home or ask a family member to take them home. Keep track of personal items such as glasses, hearing aids, dentures, and mobile devices. Ask your nurse if you need help securing your belongings.
Meals and Refreshments
Food and drinks may be restricted because of your condition, testing, or treatment. Please check with your nurse before eating or drinking.
If you are receiving observation care, tell staff about food allergies or special dietary needs. Staff can also provide current information about cafeteria and refreshment options for visitors.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted inside the hospital or medical office buildings. Please follow posted signs and staff guidance.
Spiritual and Emotional Support
If you would like spiritual support or assistance contacting your personal minister, please let your nurse know. Staff can help you learn about available support.
If you or your family have concerns about treatment decisions or your wishes for care, ask to speak with your healthcare provider or the appropriate hospital representative.
Telephone and Television
Ask staff for help using available telephone or television services. Please keep the volume low to respect other patients and visitors.
Questions or Concerns About Your Care
We encourage you to speak up if you have questions or concerns. Start with your nurse or another member of your care team so we can address the issue promptly.
If your concern is not resolved, ask to speak with the shift supervisor or Administration. You may also ask how to submit a formal complaint or grievance.
Before You Leave
Make sure you understand your care instructions, medication directions, follow-up plans, and when to seek additional medical attention. Please ask questions if anything is unclear and tell staff if you need help arranging a safe trip home.
Thank you for trusting Crittenden Community Hospital with your care.