"Long waits for pain relief after surgery"

Following major bowel surgery I was extremely disappointed and upset with my immediate post-op care, especially in relation to managing pain relief during what was a very traumatic time. Drugs were not provided on time, cannulas were unstable and I went for long periods of time, up to 8-10 hours, without any form of pain relief in the days immediately following surgery.

Some staff were obviously overworked whereas others seemed more concerned with prioritising minor issues (cups of tea, obs checks) rather than ensuring patients were comfortable and were being provided with the necessary care and medication to make their stay in hospital as comfortable as possible. 

Night times were particularly bad, with a major lack of nursing staff on the ward to supervise unruly patients and ensure medications were being provided on time. However, Carl was a model of professionalism when on duty.

Some morning rounds were also very much "doctor led" rather than in consultation with the patient, also contributing to pain medication being reduced, when it should actually have been increased - later rectified by another consultant who actually spoke to me during rounds.

The eventual discharge process was also very chaotic and it was only a few days later when I returned to see my consultant that I received formal discharge documentation and fit for work forms.

Despite this I would like to recognise Tina, Anna and Nicole, as well as the super night shift nurse Carl, for their efforts in trying to make my stay as comfortable as possible.