"My stay in Broadgreen Hospital from August..."

I was admitted for either a removal and then a new ankle replacement inserted or if unable to do this a fixation . On the day of my operation the staff on the admitting ward were very professional. They explained everything that was going to happen and answered every query my husband and I had . The Consultant anaesthetist discussed my options and was extremely thorough, making me feel very confident in them. I then had a visit from the surgeon. The member of staff in recovery who looked after me was amazing after the operation. , Even visiting me in the orthopaedic high dependency unit where I was overnight the next day. On on the high dependency unit the nurses were amazing . (They were from the

I.T.U. At the Royal Liverpool ). I was then transferred to Ward 1. The ward was bright and airy and was very clean. The staff were welcoming and nothing was too much trouble. The ward matron who had worked on the ward for many years was so helpful and cheerful. They were very good in their recommendations on what was on the menu. ( the menu was very varied and every thing I had to eat was very good ). They also were able to offer me de caffeinated tea and coffee which was fantastic. Also all the drinks were served in a mug!The nursing care was of a very high standard . Everything was explained to me before any procedure was carried out, the nurses ( both day and night ) were cheerful and caring and very professional .

I was not made to feel in any way that I was a nuisance when I had to ring the bell! The ward nurse was very much in evidence. Helping out where necessary and checking up on all theirpatients. It was great to also see the matron visiting the wards, and you could see that as well as talking to all the patients they were checking up that everything was in order. The orthopaedic specialist nurse needs a special mention, with their expertise , knowledge and skill, they were so kind and helpful both to myself and the nurses on the ward and in outpatients.

The physio and the occupational therapist were amazing at thinking outside the box. I have quite severe rheumatoid arthritis so cannot use crutches . I was non weight baring and my house has lots of steps. Due to there perseverance I was able to get home with lots of equipment on loan, after a week . Otherwise I might still be there!!!

If anybody needs an orthopaedic operation I would very much recommend Broadgreen Hospital and ward 1. Nobody likes being in hospital but if you do need an operation you couldn't be in better hands.. Annemarie Gillett