Patient safety

Your safety as a patient is our number one priority. Every day, our dedicated staff and medical teams promote safe care, and we’re always looking for ways to improve our patient safety practices.

We also encourage you and your family to be our partner. If you have any compliments, complaints or concerns while you’re here, speak to your nurse or manager on duty.

Or call our Patient Experience line:
Edward Hospital: 630-527-7225
Elmhurst Memorial Hospital: 331-221-1115
Linden Oaks Hospital: 630-305-5115

Patient safety is our priority

Edward-Elmhurst Health is one of the best when it comes to patient safety. Edward Hospital was recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for exemplary sustained contributions in improving patient safety nationwide. Elmhurst Hospital was recognized with a Hospital Safety Score of “A” by The Leapfrog Group, under the guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patient safety.

Patient/Family Rapid Response team

Our Patient/Family Rapid Response team is an immediate way to get help when you sense something could be harmful or risky, or if you or a family member is confused about your care. When you call, an operator will ask for your name and room number, and send a healthcare professional to help.

Personal identification checks

Your personal identification is essential to your safety. We'll always check your ID bracelet each and every time you receive a medication or procedure. If we don't ask, please tell us. We will also use our bedside medication scanner to verify your personal information before giving you medication.

Safe medication care

To ensure you receive safe, effective medication, your healthcare team needs to know all of the medications you take, including non-prescription medicines such as vitamins and supplements. Also, let your healthcare team know if you’re allergic to anything. If you’re prescribed a new medication, discuss with your doctor the safest way to take it and possible side effects.

Infection prevention

Germs are everywhere, and you’re more susceptible to them if you have a weakened immune system. We'll apply standards that reduce your risks, but we need your help. 

Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection. Please be sure to frequently wash your hands and use the hand sanitizer gel provided in your room and throughout the hospital, and encourage your caregivers and visitors to do the same. You can also help prevent the spread of germs by covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Read more about infection prevention

More hospital safety tips

If you’re an inpatient with us, we will make every attempt to take out your IV, catheters and central lines as quickly as possible to avoid infections and help you be more comfortable. If your condition is keeping you in bed for long periods, ask your nurse to help you out of bed and to change your position in bed if you are unable. Sometimes your sense of balance may be off, causing you to fall. Be sure to ask for help when getting up. We also have special equipment to safely lift you.