Shadyside Hospital Foundation

A formal or written complaint made to any hospital representative or employee by a “grieving party” regarding the patient’s care when the issue is not resolved at the time of the complaint by staff present. It also includes any formal or informal written complaints of patient abuse or neglect and/or issues related to the hospital’s compliance with the CMS Hospital Conditions of Participation or a Medicare beneficiary billing complaint related to rights and limitations.

A verbal concern or issue made to the hospital by a patient or patient representative (“grieving party”) that can be resolved at the time of the staff present, including, but not limited to nursing, administration, nursing supervisors or patient relations representatives.

Also known as care pathways, critical pathways or integrated care pathways, these are one of the main tools used to manage the quality in healthcare concerning the standardization of care processes. It has been shown that their implementation reduces the variability in clinical practice and improves outcomes. Clinical pathways promote organized and efficient patient care based on evidence-based practices.

Specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses. It focuses on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain, and stresses of a serious illness – whatever the diagnosis. The goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family.

Medical professionals who are educated and certified to work as part of a team with a physician to deliver medical practice and perform physical examinations, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret lab tests, perform procedures, assist in surgery, provide patient education and counseling and make rounds in hospitals and nursing homes.