USA: Health Tip: Communicating With a Loved One's Doctor

. WASHINGTON DC / HealthDay News / October 23, 2008 Part of a caregiver's responsibilities include communicating with your charge's doctors, and knowing how and when to ask the right questions. The American Heart Association offers these guidelines for caregivers: * Explain to the doctor your role as caregiver, and that you need to be included in important communication about the patient. * Educate yourself about the details of your loved one's condition. * Write down information about behaviors you have noticed, such as your loved one's sleeping habits, eating habits and emotions. * Take your time and think through any decisions about your loved one. If possible, make sure the doctor offers you enough time to consider the options. Consider scheduling a consultation appointment. * Make a list of questions and topics for discussion during appointments. * Appreciate the time your doctor takes, and understand that he or she may not have an immediate answer to all of your questions. Copyright © 2008 Yahoo! Inc.