National Patient Safety Awareness Week comes to a close at McConnell Published March 17, 2009 By Ruth Eckert 22nd Medical Group MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- The 22nd Medical Group celebrated Patient Safety Awareness Week March 8 to 14. This national education and awareness-building campaign focused on patient safety and the centrally held belief that healthcare providers should "Above All, Do No Harm," as is sworn in the Hippocratic Oath. Healthcare organizations across the country planned events to promote patient safety and empower individuals to take an active role in their own care. The 22nd MDG staff created a display with patient safety articles, handed out "My Medication" cards and demonstrated the proper way to wash hands. The staff completed patient safety quizzes to compete for prizes and watched a video related to healthcare errors. Although staff education was an important part of this campaign, educating the healthcare consumer remains as critical. The following are actions to help individuals take an active role in their care: Bring your identification to every encounter and tell us why you are here. Understand the treatment plan prescribed for you. If you don't understand, ask questions. Ask your provider to explain your test results. Know what medications you are taking and why. Be sure to include herbal supplements and over the counter medications. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or arm, not your hand. The 22nd MDG welcomed a designated Patient Safety Manager in February to ensure the continuation of a culture of safety throughout the facility. For more information, please call 759-6146.