Caregivers have a long list of things they need to know. A caregiver’s job description can be quite extensive and include various tasks. Providing care and house work is only the tip of the iceberg. Some of them even provide basic medical care. One task on the list is organizing a medical history. It is quite important to have all documents at one place when the time comes. Learn how to organize a medical history and what papers you shouldn’t forget.
Organizing a Medical History and More
You will never know what can happen to a patient, so make sure you prepare everything in advance and keep all the papers in one folder. The most important aspect is to know where their health insurance card is, as well as their Medicare card. Also, always know the list of medications your patient uses and the list of all medications used in the recent past. Write down all the medications and updated them when needed. You can write down the medications your patient is allergic to as well.
Apart from the list of medications, prepare the list of emergency contacts. Beside each name, write their phone number, address and relationship, with the patient. All data about the blood pressure readings and blood sugar levels is very welcomed. If your patient was in a hospital before, make sure you include reports about them. A living will and a power of attorney, if there are such, can also be part of the documentation.
Think about other things you may include which can be important for comprehending their medical condition. Once you are satisfied with the papers you collected, placed them in a safe place and inform your patient as well as her/his family where they are. This way, you will always have everything in one place and there is no way you will forget something.
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