"Ankle Surgery"

I managed to break my ankle in 3 places at a visit to Bristol balloon fiesta.

I was initially treated at Bristol RGI but refused the surgery that was needed there as I wanted to be near home.

On admission to Medway the following day I was admitted to Sunderland Ward where I found all the staff to be friendly, helpful, caring and went above and beyond expectations in their care and help for me.

However, I think that your discharge procedure needs a serious overhaul.

From being told that I could go home at 11.30 am, at 5.30 pm I was still waiting for 'a letter from the Dr'.

By the time said letter was prepared I was told it was too late to obtain all my medication from the pharmacy as they had "gone home".

In a 24 hour hospital I find this incredible.

I have to have Fragmin injections and these were not prepared.

I was told that I could stay in another night and have the injection in hospital then the next day I would be able to have all my medication.

So, stay in another night, taking up a bed that a seriously ill patient might need just because the pharmacy and discharge units can't get their acts together.

I fail to see how this is a good use of resources, given that the NHS is always claiming lack of beds and funding.

Needless to say I had the injection and went home but had to return the next day for the medication.

Today I attended the fracture clinic to have a cast fitted, x ray and see the consultant.

The department seems to run like clockwork, the staff were helpful, and there was hardly any waiting around.

Plaster Theatre Staff do a great job and the nurse who took out my stitches and plastered my ankle was understanding and careful.

Thank you.

Can I ask that you extend my thanks to all who have treated me so far, ward staff, operating and plaster theatre staff, x ray and of course my consultant for my treatment and the time and care they have extended to me.