We know that hospitalization is never an entirely pleasant experience, but we will do our best to make you as comfortable as possible. We dedicate our staff and resources to your care. Our health care team works with you to make sure your individual medical and personal needs are met. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask your physician or your nurse.
Medical staff
The physician or health care provider who admits you is responsible for directing your care while you are in the hospital. Your physician, as the coordinator for your treatment program, should be consulted if you have questions about your illness.
Nursing staff
Twenty-four hour nursing care is provided by a team of professional registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nurse assistants. A nurse manager is responsible for directing and coordinating nursing care on each unit. Your primary nursing care is provided by a registered nurse. Please feel free to contact your nurse or the nurse manager if you have questions or concerns.
Supportive Care Team
The Supportive Care Team (SCT) is specially trained to respond to the needs of those in the hospital with life-threatening illnesses. The professional team compassionately addresses the concerns of the patient, as well as the needs of the family and friends. This team consists of a social worker, chaplain, nurses and counselors. Members of the SCT recognize that the severely ill not only suffer physical discomfort, but also experience emotional, spiritual and social challenges. The team is skilled at meeting a full-spectrum of needs. To access the SCT, ask your nurse or physician for a referral.
Pastoral Care
Providence Portland Medical Center believes that total patient care includes attention to the spiritual, as well as the physical and emotional needs of each patient. Chaplains provide a non-judgmental, confidential, listening presence to patients, their families and friends. We minister to persons of all faiths and those with no faith tradition. We honor the patients’ journeys and values. Chaplains are available for crises, deaths and when a patient requests sacramental/pastoral support. If you wish, we will gladly contact your priest, minister or rabbi.
The hospital is staffed with chaplains at all times. To request a chaplain, call Pastoral Care at ext. 56833 or ask your nurse. Outside the hospital, call 503-215-6833.
Pharmacy staff
The Providence Portland Pharmacy/IV Department provides 24-hour a day comprehensive services, ensuring that all patients receive high-quality, safe and effective drugs and IV solutions. The hospital pharmacist has expert knowledge about drugs and their effects on different diseases and conditions. Pharmacists work together with the other members of your health care team to evaluate, recommend and monitor the most effective therapy for you.
Dietitians
Registered dietitians are available to assist you in optimizing your nutritional needs. Nutrition is an important part of healing and recovery. Your physician will order a diet appropriate for your diagnosis and treatment. Food and Nutrition Service’s staff will provide a menu to match your diet order. Dietitians also provide diet instructions and referrals to plan for special diet needs after your hospital stay. If you wish to speak with a dietitian, please notify your nurse or physician.
People you may meet
Depending on your needs, you will meet different members of the hospital health care staff. These people may include:
Your primary nurse and other nursing staff who care for you 24-hours a day
Physicians in many medical specialties
Chaplains who offer spiritual support
Health care specialists such as respiratory therapists, IV nurses, dietitians and physical therapists
Social workers who provide support services
Guild volunteers who bring coffee to patient rooms and offer newspapers, magazines and other items for sale
Cleaning attendants who clean your room
Patient escorts who provide transportation within the hospital
