ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the distinctive roles that come under the umbrella of channeling evidence, information and knowledge (EI&K), offers specific language to describe these functions, and uses stories to demonstrate how patients and family members can influence safe care by being active conduits of information, evidence, and knowledge. These roles can be separated into two parallel behaviors: roles that center on giving information, evidence, and knowledge and those that are based on receiving it. The three levels of exchange information, evidence, and knowledge divided between the parallel giving and receiving functions, create a platform for exploring patient/family roles and the structures that foster them. Patients/family members have been conduits of information since patients began seeking help from healthcare professionals. This collaborative relationship can generate change in our healthcare system that can improve patient safety. The chapter also highlights barriers that challenge the free flow of EI&K exchange among patients/families, providers, and the healthcare organization.
