Patient and family education is an important part of one’s hospitalization. Throughout the hospitalization, the patient receives education regarding their diagnosis, treatment, medications, and aftercare recommendations, as well as other education as needed in each individual case. Since this is a psychiatric admission, patient confidentiality is paramount and due to laws regarding confidentiality, the RNPH is unable to give information to family members or include them in the education process unless the patient gives specific permission. The RNPH strongly encourages patients to include family members in their care since social support can be an important part of one’s progress once the patient is discharged from the hospital. We have also found that families can often be more supportive when they have relevant information. Family meetings with the treatment team to discuss diagnosis, treatment interventions, response to treatment and discharge planning or transitions are held when needed at the treatment team’s discretion.
