"Fracture Clinic"

After initial inconclusive wrist x-rays I was referred to PRUH for follow-up x-rays 10 days later and told any fracture would be more apparent then.

I was also placed in a splint.

The appointment at PRUH was running really late, this resulted being seen towards the end of session.

I was beginning to wonder if maybe it was too late to go to x-ray/return to the clinic and I would need to come back.

When I did get seen the doctor was rushed meaning virtually no physical examination and no discussion.

The doctor just surprisingly saying “you need a scan”.

A cast was also prescribed; arm, hand and thumb (although I had no pain symptoms for any fracture requiring thumb restriction).

The doctor was quite dismissive.

The “scan” (CT scan) meant a normal wait of about 6 weeks from injury to an appointment to be told if there was any fracture and if so what type, but as I was not available for one week it meant approx 7 weeks before getting a result.

It turned out that 4 weeks in a splint/cast without thumb restriction was all that had been required.

I feel saddened that the negative impact on work and home life that 6-7 weeks in a splint/cast would have was not at all considered.

I do really appreciate CT scans are high demand and need to be prioritised resulting in some long waits.

Due to demand and the fact it may have given me an earlier diagnosis I would have at least liked to have discussed the option of x-rays at that initial appointment as originally suggested.

If they were still inconclusive, if essential, consider a scan then.

A positive note, the consultant I saw when the cast was removed was a completely different experience - not rushed and caring.

The hard working plaster room considerate, professional and friendly.

Nevertheless, I really wish I had never been referred to this hospital.