"My sons admission to A&E and Dolphin Ward ..."

My GP rang ahead to A&E explaining my sons symptoms which were severe stomach/shoulder pains, cough and high fever. We were seen almost straight away and put in cubicle. The nurses were caring and clearly run off of their feet but listened and tried to answer any questions. We had one Dr/surgeon who confused us more as their English was poor and they were very vague, this made us panic more. However after this we were treated with dignity, care and respect and met the most amazing, professional people. The pediatrician and surgeons/anesatists were clear, calm and caring. We were told why they were doing what they were doing, our options, what was happening to our son and speaking to him in a wonderfully calm and caring way.

This amazing care continued when we were transferred to Dolphin Ward when it was decided to postpone surgery as his pain had subsided.

We were given a clean, private cubicle and looked after through the night.

We were seen as we were told the next morning by the same people as the night before which astounded me that these people work so hard to help us and get so much criticism.

The decision not to take my sons appendix out was correct as he was still in less pain and an ultra sound showed what the Dr and nurses had predicted which was inflamed lymph nodes in his stomach.

I would like to thank everyone at A&E and the Doplhin ward who looked after my son Joseph and us as very worried parents over those 2 days. We were also really treated well in Dolphin Ward and I was able to approach all staff with questions/needs and nothing was too much trouble although they were again very,very busy.

Princess Alexandra Hospital has again looked after my son and I am very grateful.