Your Swedish Health Care Team

Physicians

During your hospital stay, your physician is the person primarily responsible for your care. Your physician writes orders for all tests, medications and treatments.

Nurses

Your nurse is responsible for assuring that physician orders are carried out exactly as written. Your nurse will develop a plan of care to be followed by all the other professionals taking care of you. If you're not sure who your nurse is at all times, please don't hesitate to ask a staff member.

Hospitalists

Often times during your stay at Swedish, you'll be cared for by a “hospitalist.” Hospitalists are physicians who care for patients in a hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When your physician is not available on site, a hospitalist familiar with you and your needs will take care of you and work closely with your physician and nurse.

Physicians and Nurses in Training

Because Swedish is committed to hiring the most up-to-date staff, we work closely with colleges and universities to train physicians and clinical staff. Medical residents are physicians who are receiving specialized training, and may be involved in your care. Residents work under the supervision of Swedish medical staff. Student nurses also train at Swedish. If a student nurse cares for you, they will identify themselves to you as a student. You may let your physician know if you prefer that residents or student nurses not be involved in your care.

Other Health Professionals

Other professionals who may provide services include: certified nursing assistants, nursing technicians and, depending on your care needs, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, intravenous nurses, laboratory technicians, diagnostic imaging staff, dietitians, pharmacists, social workers and chaplains.