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General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some pointers that will make it easier for you to speak to your healthcare provider:
- Take someone else with you. It aids to have another person hear what is said, and think about questions to ask.
- Write out your questions before you go, so you don't forget them.
- Pen down the answers you get, and make sure you understand what is being said. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
- Don't be scared to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information about what you are discussing. It is your right to know
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Specific Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider
- Do my symptoms suggest pneumonia?
- How could have I contracted this infection?
- Do my symptoms suggest a specific type of pneumonia?
- Are you at all concerned about the O2 level in my blood?
- What symptoms could suggest that I’m developing a more severe case?
- What symptoms could suggest that I’m developing complications?
- Is my infection contagious?
About Your Risk of Developing Pneumonia
- Do I have some other conditions that could increase my risk of pneumonia?
- How can I decrease my risk of developing pneumonia?
About Treatment Options
- Is it bacterial pneumonia and will it respond to antibiotics?
- Are there any new treatments for viral pneumonia?
- What is likely to happen without treatment?
- What medicines are available to me?
- What are the benefits/side effects of these medications?
- Will these medicines interact with other medications, over-the-counter products, or dietary or herbal supplements that I am already taking?
- Are there any complimentary or alternative therapies that will help me?
- Are there any comfort measures you can recommend?
- Is hospitalization required?
About Lifestyle Changes
- Is there any life-style change I should consider to more quickly recover from pneumonia or to prevent another out-break?
- Could you help me stop smoking?
- Do I need to curtail some of my activities?
- How should I know when I can resume my usual activities?
About Your Outlook
- How long could this last?
- Am I likely to develop complications?
- Is this likely to occur again?
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