"Review of our experience on Ward B28"

Anything else?

My father was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia May 2013 and we are just coming to terms with this. All disciplines of staff and volunteers that we have met and have treated my father have been brilliant, caring and attentive, in spite of severe under staffing. My problem is the lack of information readily available for us and I would like to make a suggestion, as in our recent experience, it appears to be a weakness on the hospital itself. We had been given no literature about telephone numbers; ward contacts, out of hours ward contacts, and bleep numbers we’ve just found out via the Macmillan Centre that we have a haematology specialist nurse! All this information obviously we would have obtained from the reception on the ward, which is not staffed, clearly due to government cut backs (big round of applause for Mr Cameron and his crew!). Therefore, in its absence can I suggest a printed information sheet for patient/relatives with all the relevant details recorded? It could be used for any patient, with blanks for the details to be added by the admission clerk. Based on our experience, it’s taken me over a month to collate this information, and I work full time myself! The diagnosis is daunting enough without me having to run around for information as well! Phoenix Unit – again no information provided on what this entails, an idea that the visits here could be long term, how do we get there (apparently our GP can arrange an ambulance if need be), how its set out. Be prepared to see other patients being treated and to be admitted if need be, food is available, bring a quiz book. Just basic information as my parents were mortified on their first visit as we had never heard of the Phoenix Unit, never mind had background knowledge. We’ve since met our specialist nurse, who was brilliant and gave us all the information and guidance we need to support my father. Obviously it would help all your disciplines of staff if the Hospital Manager could think about providing this information to patients and relatives in the future on admission to any ward in the hospital. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone associated with providing care and support to patients and relatives on Ward B28. I hope that this hiccup in your communication process can be addressed. Many thanks Angela