Your Admittance

• Patients are encouraged to have laboratory tests completed 24 to 72 hours in advance of being admitted to the hospital for a surgical procedure.
• Bring your hospitalization insurance card, policy or certificate with you when you check in, as well as a list of medications you are currently taking.
• You will be asked many questions to ensure that your medical record is complete. All information is kept strictly confidential.
• If you have Advance Directives, please bring an original copy to the hospital to be placed in your medical chart. If you need a copy of the form to fill out your Advance Directives, the Admitting Office, Patient and Guest Services or the nursing unit can provide you with a form.
• You will be asked to sign several release and consent forms for medical and/or surgical treatment. The law requires this for your protection as well as the hospital’s. Permits for treatment of children under 18 must be signed by parents or legal guardians.
• You will be given an identification band to wear on your wrist. As a safeguard, you should keep the band on during your entire stay.
• If you have any questions regarding payment of your bill, you may call the financial counselor at (301) 891-5351, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Any medicine you need will be prescribed by your doctor and given to you by the nursing staff. Please notify your nurse of any medications you have brought with you.
• Be sure to bring only essential personal items such as clothing, glasses, hearing aids and dentures. When these items are not in use, keep them in a case or container placed in the drawer of your bedside table. If you have brought valuables with you, you may choose to send them back home with family members or alert your nurse so they can be properly stored. Valuables may be deposited with the Admitting Office upon admission. The hospital cannot be held responsible for loss of personal valuables.
• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the hospital. Smoking is permitted in designated areas only.
• Your room has an adjustable bed. Your nurse will show you how to use your bedside controls. If the side rails on your bed are raised, please do not try to lower them or climb over them. Press the nurse call button for help.