"Mixed experience of fracture treatment "

My son fractured his collar bone while on holiday in France, on our last day. French doctor really good and gave support, analgesia and told us what to do on return to Kent.

Arrived in emergency department (ED) at WHH along with all X-rays taken in France. Seen by a Registered Nurse who did not give a name, who did not examine my son, and did not look at the X-rays! Told us we should not have gone to ED but needed a fracture clinic appointment. Went back to reception and tried to get the appointment. First date given was several weeks later. Overheard by a healthcare assistant who had also spotted that my son was not wearing the arm support correctly and that it was not a system used in UK. This healthcare assistant gave their name and sorted out new sling and an appointment in 2 days time - at K&C.

Son saw a Registrar and then when he asked to see the Consultant, who saw him. Son wanted further advice. Trauma service fab after that. Got call at home to say son was list the next day and we duly arrived at QEQMH for operation. All staff at QEQMH were fab especially the healthcare assistant in pre-op who explained all to my son. The orthopaedic team were great, the ward staff on Cheerful Sparrows -think that was name- were great. The anaesthetic and man who took him to theatres were good. Thanks to all for letting us come home late at night.

Fracture clinic follow ups at K&C rather smooth too. Only thing is that on last one the doctor - well we think it was a doctor! - did not introduce himself, and name badge was turned round the wrong way.