Wild Health Podcast The Hospital Survival Guide with Dr. Julie Siemers
May 14, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Julie Siemers, a seasoned nurse leader and bestselling author, shares her extensive expertise from 40 years in healthcare. She tackles the urgent need for effective communication to prevent misdiagnoses and medication errors. Dr. Siemers emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, introducing her 'Three P’s' and 'CUS' words as crucial tools for speaking up. She warns of the heightened risks during off-hours in hospitals and discusses how both patients and caregivers can significantly impact safety and outcomes.
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Communication Breakdown Threatens Safety
- Communication breakdowns cause about 70% of patient harm events, often between healthcare teams or with patients and families.
- Changing the culture to encourage speaking up can significantly improve patient safety.
Check Hospital Safety Ratings
- Check hospital safety ratings on hospital safety grade websites before admission.
- Avoid hospitals rated D or F, as risk of harm or death is significantly higher there.
Speak Up Using Three P’s
- Always speak up politely and persistently if you notice concerns or discomfort about patient care.
- Use clear communication to help healthcare professionals understand patient-specific needs and changes.