Your safety first: why we always ask your name
At Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, patient safety is our top priority. During your visit or stay, you’ll notice our staff asking you to confirm your name and date of birth – sometimes more than once. This simple step is part of a vital process called positive patient identification, and it plays a crucial role in keeping you safe.Positive patient identification ensures that every patient receives the correct treatment, medication, and diagnostic tests. By verifying individual identifiers like your full name, date of birth, and address, we can confidently match you with your medical records and care plan. This helps prevent errors such as giving the wrong medication or test results to the wrong person – mistakes that can have serious consequences.
We understand that being asked the same questions repeatedly might seem unnecessary, especially if you’ve been with us for a while. But even if we know you well, we’ll always double-check. It’s not about forgetting who you are – it’s about making sure we get everything right, every time.
We also want you to feel empowered to take part in your own safety. If a member of staff doesn’t ask for your details before a procedure or treatment, it’s okay to speak up. You can say, “Can you check my name and date of birth?” Your voice matters, and your involvement helps us deliver the safest care possible.
So next time you hear, “Hi, my name is Fred. Can you please confirm your name and date of birth?” – know that it’s more than just a greeting. It’s a step toward safer, more personalised care.
