"Care and Treatment of my Dad"

My Dad, who is 82, and lives in supported housing had a fall in his home last week and unfortunately could not alert anyone, my sister found him conscious but quite confused around 5pm after being alerted by a neighbour. An ambulance was called for and we were fortunate to have Darren and Craig from the Dumfries station attend to my Dad.  They were thorough in their examinations and included Dad, my sister and I in their decisions regarding Dad's care.  Without their kindness and compassion we would have been more worried than ever when we made the decision that Dad needed to go to hospital to be checked. 

Due to Covid we were unable to go with Dad to hospital but felt reassured when following examinations I was phoned by Dr Gibson who after taking a history from myself regarding Dad's medical conditions explained Dad was being admitted to the Combined Assessment Unit for tests and observation.  We were reassured he was in safe hands.

The next morning I telephoned CAU to ascertain how Dad was and spoke with Claire who was looking after Dad.  Just taking the time to explain things and being able to add the personal touch made a big difference and I really appreciated this. The Dad that gone to the hospital was very confused and so unlike him and just to hear that he was sitting up having breakfast was like music to my ears.  Claire was able to say that following assessments Dad may get home after he was seen by the doctor.  

Dad was also seen by a physio, who I think was called Erin but forgive me if I'm wrong, who suggested a package of care for my Dad, which we had been thinking about for a wee while, so my sister and I discussed this between us and agreed to it being considered following us having a discussion with Dad.  It was important for my sister and I  to be able to continue to visit Dad and care for him too.

Very quickly the ball started rolling and I was contacted by Scott one of the hospital based Social Workers, who discussed Dads needs with us and felt that Dad likely met the criteria for a care package, which was a relief, and  that this could be done on a part time basis to enable us to still care for Dad too!

When we got the call to say Dad was being discharged that day it was a huge relief, however, we still didn't know if he was in a confused state or not! My sister collected him from CAU and brought him home. We were delighted to have him back, he was shattered but seemed less confused which was fantastic!  After everyone was gone we sat and had a hot chocolate and put the world to rights, something that I didn't think we'd ever be able to do again.

I'm pleased to say Dad is now back to our 'normal' Dad and seems to have no lasting effects from his fall and period of unconsciousness, without the care he received from Darren, Craig, Dr Gibson, Claire, Erin and Scott and all the others who helped him, and us, the future might not be looking so good, so I want to thank each and every one of you for your care and kindness.  We have a fantastic health and social care system in this region which we should all be so grateful for!