Imagine you’re on a journey. You’re not alone; you have a guide with you. But this doesn’t mean you just sit back and relax. You have a role to play too. This is similar to the role of patients in the world of medicine.
Patients are not just passive recipients of healthcare. They are active participants in their own health and well-being. They play a crucial role in the identification and management of Suspected Unexpected Serious Adverse Reactions (SUSARs).
Active Participation
Just like a traveler who actively participates in their journey, patients need to be aware of their bodies and how they react to medications. They need to monitor themselves for any signs of adverse reactions, especially those that are unexpected and serious.
For example, if a patient starts experiencing severe stomach pain after starting a new medication, and this symptom is not listed as a known side effect of the medication, the patient might suspect an unexpected serious adverse reaction.
Reporting Symptoms
Patients also have a responsibility to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider as soon as possible. This is like a traveler informing their guide about any problems or difficulties they encounter on their journey.
For instance, if you start experiencing severe headaches after taking a new medication, it’s important to report this to your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of an unexpected serious adverse reaction.