"Transformative caring"

Multiple fractures to shoulder, ribs and pelvis. Whilst waiting for x-ray results, my phone died before I had time to tell people where the ward was. My GDPR training made me feel very isolated and I explained to one of the staff how, during an earlier (2 decades ago) stay, I had suffered delusions of persecution.

It was 2 am and the nurse found a cable for me so I could let my friends and family know my location in the hospital and keep in contact with them through the day while I waited for a coworker to bring the necessary kit.

My fear of becoming addicted to pain killers was something that I inadvertently let slip and the staff were very gentle but precise in explaining how a lung infection could occur should I not do some of the more painful exercises and it didn't feel like my concerns were being ignored so I was able to take the painkillers and make all three balls in the spirometer rise and coughed to release flem.

Once the x-rays were back and the ability to walk with a Zimmer frame was established, I found that I could navigate the room and further afield and the physios were great at showing me how to navigate a staircase using a single crutch and the acronym abc.

Ward (and auxiliary) staff at all levels, day or night were smiling, engaging and effective in conveying information required to do any procedures. Whilst efficiently carrying out these jobs, staff talked to me about many subjects of mutual interest including the origin of 0, dogs in beds, degrees at Queen's,  promotion difficulties and travel. 

I really enjoyed the food service - the staff always listened if I said I didn't want a full portion of chips and had time to repeat options when I had n't. I also like the food itself.

There have been so many staff who have taken care of me and made me feel welcome on the ward and included in decisions about treatment, I won't mention any single individual, but having worked in the USA, I know that the care I received in the RVH thes past few days could only be available to me through the NHS or a salary 10+ times what I make.

The overall impression of the staff on this ward has been an incredibly professional team who talk to individual patients as individuals and whose commitment to their patients inculcate in us a willingness to face the future hard work required for rehabilitation at home with fortitude and humour. I will miss all of them.