Every effort is made to provide comfort measures such as reassuring clients that they are in control. There is ongoing support for clients and families which is augmented by education, and information pamphlets. There is extensive collaboration around care planning and review. Informed consent is usually obtained while the client is in the emergency department and is an ongoing process depending on client condition. There is provision for substitute consent.
Processes are in place and audited to ensure that consents are always signed.
Interdisciplinary documentation is being promoted through the move to automated charting. Allergies are noted on the chart, flagged in the computer and also identified on clients arm band. Interdisciplinary assessments and planning occur through daily informal rounds and weekly formal rounds. These rounds also assist in identifying any ethical considerations which are referred to the ethics committee. Family members, and clients to the extent possible, have input to care and time lines and are encourag ed to become involved throughout the process.