ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

☐ What is this test/procedure for? Why is it necessary now?
☐ Are there alternatives (e.g., therapy vs. surgery)?
☐ What happens if we wait or do nothing?
☐ How does this fit with the patient’s overall condition or care goals?
☐ What is the plan for the weekend/holidays? Will care be delayed?

GET A SECOND OPINION

☐ Have I gotten at least one other opinion for major decisions (surgery, discharge, diagnosis)?
☐ Does this advice feel right? If not, ask again.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

☐ Am I allowed to speak with a specialist (e.g., oncologist, endocrinologist)?
☐ Has the right kind of doctor seen this patient (not just a generalist)?
☐ Do I understand and agree with the current care plan?

WATCH FOR TIMING ISSUES

☐ Are we waiting on a test or procedure that might not happen over the weekend?
☐ Can this be confirmed with the scheduling department—not just assumed?
☐ Is discharge being delayed due to something small (equipment, paperwork)? Can we solve it ourselves?

WHEN SOMETHING FEELS WRONG

☐ Is the patient being heard when they say they’re in pain?
☐ Has pain been properly evaluated (not dismissed as “drug-seeking”)?
☐ Has anyone re-checked labs, imaging, or potential complications?

BE PREPARED TO SPEAK UP

☐ Write down your concerns before rounds or updates.
☐ Keep a list of meds, diagnoses, and allergies handy.
☐ Document who you speak with and what they say.
☐ Use calm but firm language to ask for what’s needed.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ELDERLY/TERMINAL PATIENTS

☐ Is this test/procedure aligned with comfort or palliative care goals?
☐ Has anyone questioned whether the treatment plan matches the patient’s stage or wishes?
☐ Are we doing this because it’s necessary—or just because it’s routine?

FINAL REMINDERS

☐ Always ask: “Why?”—It’s not rude, it’s responsible.
☐ Trust your gut. If something feels wrong, speak up again.
☐ You don’t need to be a doctor to be an advocate. You just need to care.