"Distress that could have been avoided"

My son had tonsillectomy & adenoids removed at Glasgow Children’s hospital a month ago.

Although the staff were supportive whilst there we had many instances of distress and meltdown that could have been avoided. During the pre-op call I described my sons level of understanding being that of a one year old, autistic behaviours and how I foresaw difficulties and meltdowns. However from arrival it was soon clear this information had not been passed on or received fully as there was many opportunities missed that could have supported him but instead we had meltdowns during transition to the theatre/ pre surgery was traumatising for him and myself, then he was awake before we reached him after the surgery - again major upset and meltdown.

Sleeping arrangements and separate room happened after requested during meltdown again this was discussed at pre op call. We had an overnight stay but it’s taking weeks since home of him still being on edge especially during the night waking in panic. I’m disappointed that his additional support needs were not addressed and taken forward from pre op call to us arriving on ward. There were at least 4 instances of avoidable distress unfortunately.