"Critical care liaison service"

8 years ago after major bowel surgery I was in High dependency for a period of time. The specialist nursing care was first class however there was no follow up care when I moved to the ward and then home. I found this part of my recovery very psychologically challenging and frightening.

Four months ago I was admitted to the adult critical care unit after a routine operation to remove adhesions. What then ensued was two months of complications and further surgery including a spell in intensive care. In total I was in the unit for approximately six weeks and was very lucky to be alive.

Audrey approached my husband during this time to provide support to him and my family. She was our link between the doctors and Nursing staff and would explain everything in simple and easy to understand terms. She was truly outstanding in her role and as I grew stronger and more coherent, we built a very strong relationship and I felt so much more confident as a result. This care and support continued when I moved to the ward as she was able to explain to the nursing staff just how ill I had been and what I'd came through. I feel this was invaluable and as a result the care I received from all staff was far more personalised. Her empathy and care has continued now that I am home and I liaise with her fortnightly as she tracks my progress.

Having had experience of recovery both with and without the liaison service, I have no doubt that this level of care and attention is vital for not only the patient but for their family too in which is an extremely emotionally draining time. Audrey is amazing at her job and I don't feel that my family or I would have made it through without her.