A standard that is mandated for all healthcare decisions is that of informed consent. This means that the person who is considering a procedure has the risks and benefits discussed with them and that they understand those risks and benefits. The consent form that the individual signs is the documentation that states that the person knows what is going to be done to them and that they understand the risks and benefits of the procedure and they agree to it.
With 90% of consumer's healthcare illiterate, it is even more important that the consumer or patient understands what they agree to. As healthcare providers, we often speak in medical terminology using words and phrases that the lay public does not understand. As a lay person, you are not stupid if you do not understand the language of healthcare. Often those of us practicing in other specialty areas in healthcare do not understand each other.
Be your own best advocate. Ask questions! There are no dumb questions. If you do not understand the language of healthcare, the language that is being spoken due to an accent or abbreviations or terminology, ask for clarification. As healthcare providers, we want you to understand so you can have a better quality outcome as a participant in your plan of care. If you cannot understand us, we cannot work as a team.
This is of particular importance in the situation when the person that is to have the procedure has dementia. In fact, one of the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease is related to language loss. It is of the greatest importance to choose someone to help you with this process. As healthcare providers we want you to participate and understand what's going on, but if you haven't got anyone to help you, we are at a loss.
Help us to help you and contact me if you need clarification on your procedure, or simply want to discuss what's happening.