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"Thank you for making this hard time just a little bit brighter"

About: North Devon District Hospital / End of life care

(as a service user),

Sadly, my 99 year old nanny died early April in King George V Ward following a 2 week end of life period. She was firstly in a bay as it was thought that she had a treatable infection, & then in a cubicle once we all realised what was happening.  As an ex paediatric hospice nurse, I was really hoping that nanny would be moved to the hospice, as per her wishes for her end of life journey. However, for various reasons this did not happen. I can honestly say that the care my nanny, my mum, myself & other family members received by everyone involved in my nanny's care was absolutely exceptional. 

Her pain was quickly controlled (this was one of my biggest worries) with a syringe driver & break through medication.  She was kept comfortable, warm, turned regularly, washed & teeth cleaned. - she was always very proud of her appearance & having her own teeth at her age :-).

The catering ladies got to know what she liked to eat & drink - basically anything sweet, & made sure these foods were provided.  She consequently ate ice cream right up until her last day! 

As a family we were all so well looked after & this made the end of life journey so much easier.  There were so many people involved in my nanny's care & I'd like to thank every single one, but the 2 I remember are Erin & Poppy.  You are both exceptional care givers, please keep it up.  Erin, your hug on the day nanny died was so needed & just felt so genuine.  To everyone on King George V Ward, you are amazing.  Thank you for making this hard time just a little bit brighter. 

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Responses

Response from Ward Sister (Northern Services), King George V Ward (Northern Services), Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust last month
Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Submitted on 16/04/2025 at 16:01
Published on Care Opinion at 16:04


Dear VM1977

Thank you so much for taking the time to post this lovely feedback.

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Nanny, all our thoughts are with your family. Your feedback is very kind and I am pleased she was comfortable and received the care she deserved.

I will share this feedback with our ward staff to show the difference we can make. It is always nice to hear from patients/relatives about their experiences.

Wishing you all the best

Eleanor Climie

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