SMDC Medical Center Patient Guide

Safety Information

Fire Drills
In order to ensure quick and efficient response in the event of a fire, we conduct regular fire drills as part of our Fire Prevention and Protocol Program. Please do not be alarmed if you should see and hear the response to a drill called “CODE RED.” Please remain in your immediate area and do not use the elevators during a drill. We appreciate your understanding of our need to test our emergency readiness.

Infection Control Precautions
Doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers come into contact with lots of bacteria and viruses. So, before they treat you, ask them if they’ve washed their hands. Our healthcare providers will appreciate you being an informed and active member of the healthcare team. Standard Precautions are followed by the nurses, doctors and other persons involved in your care. This means that, depending on the care being provided to you, gloves, gowns, and/or surgical masks and goggles may be worn by your caregivers.

Sharps
Containers are located in all patient rooms for the immediate disposal of needles and other sharp objects used for your care. These should not be used by patients or visitors unless instructed by the nursing staff. Covered Trash Receptacles which are lined with red bags are located in various locations throughout the medical center. These are used to dispose of waste which is classified as “infectious.” Like Sharps Containers, these are not intended to be used by patients or visitors unless the nursing staff has instructed otherwise.

Valuables and Personal Belongings
Articles such as jewelry, credit cards and money should not be kept in your room. Please send them home with a relative or place them in our safe. We suggest you keep no more than $10 cash with you in your room. You are responsible for your personal articles such as dentures, eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids and clothing that you choose to keep in your room. SMDC Medical Center is not responsible for the loss of articles kept in your room.

Wet Surfaces
To avoid accidents, please be careful when walking on wet floors. If there is a spill on the floor in your room, please contact a staff member.
502 E. 2nd Street, Duluth, MN 55805 | 218-727-8762