Your Health Care Team
Your team of caregivers may include physicians, nurses, nurse's assistants, physician assistants, therapists and other health care professionals. Each team member is assigned to you based on his or her professional competency and will continually care for you while monitoring and documenting your progress and managing your medications.
All hospital employees undergo continual training and attend in-services to keep their knowledge current. Furthermore, many health care professionals must meet continuing education requirements to maintain their professional licenses. The credentials of physicians who are on staff at the hospital are reviewed regularly to ensure that they are meeting the requirements of their licensures.
As part of our commitment to your safety and comfort, our nursing staff performs Hourly Patient Safety and Service Rounds.
Pain Management
Your health care team strives to effectively manage your pain. You are the expert on your own pain and in order to determine the best pain treatment plan, the team will rely on you to provide complete and accurate information about your pain. Please describe the pain in as much detail as possible and alert a member of your care team if there is a sudden change in your pain.
Studies have shown that after an operation, good pain control results in fewer complications, faster healing and shorter hospital stays.
Listening to You
To address a concern or share a compliment regarding your care or hospital stay, contact the Nursing leadership staff on your unit or our Customer Relations Department at extension 5457 or extension 5254.
It is important to us to address your concerns as promptly as possible; please do not hesitate to bring them to our attention. For concerns regarding room temperature, cleanliness, noise level or related issues contact the hospital operator for assistance by dialing "0" or speak with your nurse. During non-business hours, patients are encouraged to leave a message at either extension 5457 or 5254. Messages will be addressed the following business day. Patients may also ask to speak with the Nursing Supervisor or dial extension 5170.
Should you wish to file a complaint (grievance) during your stay, please contact the clinical manager of your department or you may call either 5459 or 5254.
After discharge, you may file a complaint (grievance) by either calling or writing to:
- Carli Meister, M. Sc(A), R.N., Director
Customer Relations and Risk
Chester County Hospital
701 East Marshall Street
West Chester, PA 19380
610.431.5254
The complaint will be evaluated thoroughly and you will receive a personalized response in most instances within 7-30 days.
You also have the right to file a complaint directly with:
- The Pennsylvania Department of Health
Acute and Ambulatory Services
Room 532 Health and Welfare Building
625 Forster Street, Harrisburg, PA 17120
Complaint Hotline: 1.800.254.5164
- The Joint Commission
Office of Quality Monitoring
One Renaissance Boulevard
Oak Brook Terrace, Illinois 60181
Complaint Hotline: 1.800.994.6610
- Quality Insights of Pennsylvania
Attention: Review Services
630 Freedom Business Center, Suite 116
King of Prussia, PA 19406
Complaint Hotline: 1.800.322.1914
Making Difficult Decisions
When faced with unresolved issues of an ethical nature, Chester County Hospital's Ethics Committee can offer assistance. Comprised of physicians, nurses, administrators, social workers and community members, the Committee is available for consultation. To request a consultation, speak with your physician or nurse.
Clergy and Spiritual Support
We recognize that your well being may include a need for spiritual care and support. During your hospitalization, we'd be happy to contact your pastor or spiritual support person. To let us know of your request, please call extension 2911. Indicate your name, room number and religious affiliation or the particular organization you would like us to contact. If emergency support is needed, please notify your nurse or dial "0" for the hospital operator. We also respect our patients' right to determine if they do not wish any visits from clergy.
Reiki Therapy
Reiki is a non-invasive, restorative technique that promotes healing of the body, mind and spirit. This therapy is completed by a Reiki certified member of our clinical staff and can be requested by patients through their attending nurse.
Smoking Policy
Chester County Hospital is a non-smoking campus. Your physician and nurse may provide assistance to you if you anticipate difficulty in not smoking during your hospitalization.
Fire Alarm and other Drills
Occasionally, Chester County Hospital conducts fire drills and other tests of our emergency response systems. Personnel will respond to the drills. Please remain in your room during these times. You are not required to participate in any drill.