"Hip Surgery"

Presented to A&E upon instruction by physio for extreme ongoing hip pain with approximately five week history. During these five weeks, I was in contact with two GP's and had three physio appointments with an x-ray scheduled for the following Monday, which was almost a month after my first appointment with the physio. Over the five week period, each contact with healthcare professionals I disclosed my level of pain but also that one leg was shorter and a different colour to the other. This was dismissed each time I mentioned it. 

Additionally, after multiple painful spasms the first night I contacted NHS 24 who put me in contact with out of hours at the BGH where I felt my concerns were rudely dismissed and the responder was clearly distracted by noise heard in the back of the call. This contact discouraged me from any further contact with this service during this journey. 

The initial wait in A&E to be assessed and x-rayed was fairly speedy, and radiology department were lovely. Upon confirming the diagnosis, Dr Currie thoroughly explained what the treatment would be and completely put me at ease. Dr Currie was with me the whole journey and I felt he delivered caring, person-centred care and listened and responded to all my individual needs. 

Overall I spent a total of 26 hours waiting in A&E. Staff were extremely caring despite the extremely busy atmosphere, however were not always able respond to needs such as those concerning pain relief in a timely manner. 

When I was taken to theatre, the nurse was amazing at making me feel at ease and calming my nerves, chatting away and making sure all my questions were answered. following my operation, my parents were unsure were i would be transferred to following theatre as there was a lack of beds in ward 9. 

Recovery team were amazing and went the extra mile to make me feel at ease and as comfortable as possible. On transfer to ward 9 Ronnie and Dr Currie ensured my pain was manageable and explained everything about staying in hospital i.e buzzers etc, making me feel extremely comfortable in the surroundings. My stay in ward 9 was very good, all staff introduced themselves and were all really attentive and caring towards my needs and worries and did everything to quell them. Overall, my stay in hospital was extremely positive and all those involved in my care there were extremely compassionate, caring and respectful.