"Paediatric head injury"

I unfortunately had to attend A&E with my 8-year-old due to a head injury. On arrival the waiting area was very full and the waiting time was 5 hours. Whilst providing my sons details at the reception desk, he vomited on the floor. I informed the reception staff and blue fluffier were put on top of the vomit whilst awaiting a cleaner. Due to how busy the waiting area was I felt I had to keep reminding others to watch their step as I did not want anyone to injure themselves. The vomit remained on the floor for 45 minutes - I appreciate this is not a priority when emergencies are taking place but recognise this was not pleasant for others to be around . 

My son was triaged approximately 1 hour after arrival. Anton the nurse and the doctor that seen him were amazing. I really do recognise their patience and compassion in such testing times .

My son was quickly assessed and the doctor advised he wanted a second opinion due to the size of the lump on my son’s forehead. The doctor left and returned approximately 10 minutes later with a senior doctor. On measuring it was noted my son had a haematoma measuring 7cm x 5cm. Based on this I was advised an admission was needed for observation.

We were then taken to the waiting area briefly before being admitted to the bays within A&E to await transfer to the children’s ward. The nurse and nursing assistant were amazing with my son, as a result of the head injury he was joking and telling them his name was John Cena. Both Judy and the nursing assistant made us all feel at ease and welcomed my son’s jokes whilst ensuring his observations remained stable . 

We were soon transferred to the children’s ward and admitted by nurse Morag and Nurse Shannon . Again we were welcomed with warmth and compassion . Both nurses ensured we felt listened to and gave ample opportunities to ask any questions. Not once during our visit did my little boy feel frightened or anxious. We seen both the junior doctor and registrar multiple times before being discharged 4 hours later with worsening advice and open access . Although we did not wish to be attending as an emergency the staff involved made our admission a very positive experience . 

2 days later we unfortunately had to return due to worsening symptoms and we were delighted to see nurse Morag was on shift again . Seeing a familiar face definitely eased my concerns. I felt listened to throughout our attendance and all staff members acknowledged my health care background, ensuring I understood everything explained to me and also recognised any concerns I had.

My little boy required a CT scan , again he took this in his stride with thanks to the amazing staff (porters and staff in the CT scan department ). We were discharged later that day with reassurance I could call at any time for further advice. An outpatient follow up appointment was required and arranged for the next day . 

Upon attending the ophthalmology appointment, the doctor explained everything to me and again reassured me of the findings . 

I cannot praise the staff enough for the care provided not only to my son but also the compassion shown to myself in what I would describe as a stressful situation . My son has a few weeks of recovery ahead of him but I feel at ease knowing I can contact the amazing health care professionals for advice if needed. 

Thank you to every single staff member we came into contact with , every little engagement helped us through the challenges faced . I am so thankful to the NHS and also so proud to be part of the NHS .