Better outcomes happen when patients, families and healthcare providers work as a team. Through intentional communication processes, the CoACT program helps everyone collaborate and work stronger together.
Patients and families can expect:
When you are admitted to the hospital, your care team will provide you with information about what to expect during your stay, such as safety, mealtimes and parking. This may be shared through a booklet, poster, video or brochure and will be reviewed with you. For more details, view the CoACT Patient Orientation Placemat or watch the Patient Orientation Video. If you have questions, please ask your care team.
When a care team member enters your room, they will introduce themselves with their name, role and purpose. For example: "Hello. My name is Thor. I'm a Health Care Aide. I brought you a glass of water and can help you open your snack."
A Care Hub is a team of healthcare providers working together to support your care. This team may include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and health care aides, all collaborating to provide you with the best care possible.
This whiteboard near your bed is a communication tool for you, your family and your care providers. It includes important information like the current date, your care team's names, your daily plan (including appointments), goals and your expected discharge date. Feel free to use the board to write comments or questions for your care team.
During shift changes, with your permission, a brief meeting may take place at your bedside. This ensures the incoming and outgoing care providers are updated about you and your care. It also gives you and your family a chance to stay informed and share input.
Close to every two hours, your care team will check on your personal care needs, such as walking assistance, help with the washroom, repositioning, pain management, comfort and safety. Let your care team know what you need—they’ll do their best to help.
A Quality Board will be on display on your unit. This board shows information such as numbers, graphs and pictures to highlight what the unit is working to improve and how it is doing. It reflects our commitment to excellence and safety every day.
Your care team, which may include nurses, physicians, physiotherapists, dietitians, social workers, meets regularly to talk about your care and discharge plan. If you have questions or concerns, share them with your nurse so they can bring them to the meeting.
What patients have to say about receiving care on a CoACT unit:
"I really like being included in the conversation... It's a great way to keep everyone in the know."
Patient, South Health Campus, Calgary Zone
"I like that the staff here keeps us informed and updates the whiteboards daily. We think it is a great tool."
Family member, Calgary Zone
"The team does great work here. I've never felt so good being sick."
Patient, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton Zone
For more information on CoACT, please email: coact@ahs.ca
