"Care following a cycling accident"

I was delivered via ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary one morning late November 2018 following an unscheduled and not very well executed demount from my bicycle.

The ambulance crew, from Alford Ambulance Station, (Greg and Lynn) arrived promptly and were extremely kind to me. The much-needed ‘gas and air’ was administered without delay making the transfer into the ambulance as comfortable as possible. Lynn expertly negotiated the rough and twisty turny, icy roads back roads making for a quick and stable transit to ARI.  Greg has a superb stretcher-side manner; he kept my pain under control and I think he even made me laugh!

Once at ARI I was delivered to the team waiting in ‘Resus’ and was immediately assessed and given further pain relief. I remember the names of 3 doctors, Imran, Alex and Dr Robertson (I think). There were nurses and other doctors looking after me too and a failure to recall their names is a reflection on me and not of the standard of care or kindness that I received. Imran was in charge of my initial assessment and pain-relief. He was very kind, calm, in control and professional- exactly what a trauma patient needs when she or he feels like they are in a desperate situation.

The Radiography staff were also fantastic and I am so sorry I can’t remember their names to thank them individually.

Once admitted to the ward (212 and 213) on floor 6 in the pink zone, I  was cared for by the nursing staff (James, Richard, Sophie, Nadia, Lewis, Dion, Bejilly and many more  - I am so sorry my memory has let me down). The nurses were extremely busy; I never imagined how demanding their jobs were. Without exception they all gave me the impression that they loved their jobs. Nothing was too much trouble for them, even when the patient in the neighbouring bed was repeatedly pressing her call button I didn’t detect even a trace of resentment. What professionals!

My Surgeon, Mr Munro, aided by his team, placed an intermedullary pin in my femur. I was awake during the surgery and I can’t believe how quickly and neatly he completed what looks to me like very demanding and technical procedure.  The X-rays are looking too which augurs  well for my rehabilitation.

Laura was my anaesthetist. She explained my options, risks and benefits for general anaesthetic compared with a spinal block and answered all my questions. I opted for the spinal block which she administered painlessly and worked a dream. She was very professional, kind, calm and inspired conference. A senior colleague was also present. I can’t recall his name but he has an excellent repertoire of anxiety-relieving jokes - what an entertainer but I hope he never considers a career change.

I saw Dr Bruce a number of times during my stay, she looked after me when I fainted and regularly checked that I was feeling ok. Another kind, friendly and caring young professional who inspires confidence and hope. 

Jane, Steph and Paula were the physiotherapy team I feel so fortunate to have had caring for me. They got me on my feet despite all my worries about pain and balance. Somehow they instinctively knew how far to push me such that I made progress but did not cause me distress.  They got me back on my feet - a massive mile-stone as far as I am concerned.

I saw 2 occupational therapists (Zoey and I am sorry I can’t recall your equally professional colleague’s name). They both expertly assessed me for special equipment that would be required once I was discharged. Both very kind, caring and willing to answer all my questions.