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General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your healthcare provider:
- Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
- Write out your questions ahead of time, so you don't forget them.
- Write down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
- Don't be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. You have a right to know.
Specific Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider
- Do my symptoms suggest pneumonia?
- How might I have contracted this infection?
- Do my symptoms suggest a particular type of pneumonia?
- Are you at all concerned about the oxygen level in my blood?
- What symptoms might suggest that I’m developing a more severe case?
- What symptoms might suggest that I’m developing complications?
- Is my infection contagious?
About Your Risk of Developing Pneumonia
- Do I have any other conditions that might increase my risk of pneumonia?
- How can I decrease my risk of developing pneumonia?
About Treatment Options
- Is this bacterial pneumonia? Will it respond to antibiotics?
- Are there any new treatments for viral pneumonia?
- What is likely to happen without treatment?
- What medications are available to me?
- What are the benefits/side effects of these medications?
- Will these medications interact with other medications, over-the-counter products, or dietary or herbal supplements that I am already taking?
- Are there any alternative or complimentary therapies that will help me?
- Are there any comfort measures you can recommend?
- Do I need hospitalization?
About Lifestyle Changes
- Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider to more quickly recover from pneumonia or to prevent another outbreak?
- Can you help me stop smoking?
- Do I need to curtail any of my activities?
- How will I know when I can resume my usual activities?
About Your Outlook
- How long might this last?
- Am I likely to develop complications?
- Is this likely to happen again?
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