I had a bad fall at my climbing gym, who called an ambulance. After arriving at the Royal Free A&E, all seemed to be going well, my pain was being managed by the excellent paramedics whilst we waited (they suspected an ankle fracture)
When it was my turn to be admitted and assessed, all proceeded slowly, but logically. I had X-rays taken. Once it was established that I had no broken bones, I was ushered into a wheel chair and into the waiting area to be seen by a doctor.
Nearly 5 hours later (around 2am (my fall happened around 5pm the previous day), a doctor finally saw me, reiterated I had no broken bones, told me to rest, ice and elevate ( no compression?) gave me crutches and discharged me.
My issue isn’t necessarily the ridiculously long waiting time, but the fact that I wasn’t told how I should care for my ankle or things to watch out for. A week later, and I still can’t walk, my pain isn’t diminished and I’m left confused wondering if I’m doing something wrong.
I don’t know if I should be seeing another doctor or physio as I wasn’t advised anything about caring for my injury/recovery.
I am reluctant to go back due to this hap hazard service, but may have no choice due to doctors appointments being full and flying soon.
"Not as helpful as one would hope"
About: Royal Free Hospital / Accident and emergency Royal Free Hospital Accident and emergency London NW3 2QG
Posted via nhs.uk
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