Patients
Patients
Patients (pronunciation: /ˈpeɪʃənts/) are individuals who receive medical care or treatment. The term is derived from the Latin word patiens, the present participle of the deponent verb pati, meaning "one who suffers".
History
The concept of a patient has evolved over time, from the ancient practice of healing to the modern healthcare system. In the past, the patient was seen as a passive recipient of care. Today, the patient is an active participant in their own healthcare, often involved in decision-making processes.
Types of Patients
There are several types of patients, including:
- Inpatient: A patient who is admitted to a hospital or clinic for treatment that requires at least one overnight stay.
- Outpatient: A patient who receives medical treatment without being admitted to a hospital.
- Day patient: A patient who is admitted to a hospital or clinic for treatment that lasts for most of the day but does not require an overnight stay.
Patient Rights
Patients have certain rights in the healthcare system. These include the right to informed consent, the right to refuse treatment, and the right to privacy. These rights are often outlined in a Patient's Bill of Rights.
Patient Responsibilities
Patients also have certain responsibilities, such as providing accurate information about their health history, following the treatment plan agreed upon with their healthcare provider, and respecting the rights of other patients and healthcare staff.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Patients
- Wikipedia's article - Patients
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