" I felt that they only wanted to treat what he was in for"

Unfortunately my husband caught another nasty urine bug and ended up on antibiotics in the local general hospital. The staff were great when we explained what was involved in looking after his spinal injury and decided that I was right that they could not carry out the Health and Safety rule, breaking duties that are the only way we get through the torture that is our days. So a mattress was found for me to sleep on the floor so that I could, as is my life, attend to the forcible straightening of legs that needs to be performed during the night. I would imagine they were also relieved that he would be one patient that they did not have to worry about feeding and toileting as I took care of it all, during his stay.

I was hoping that someone would write a report to social services or some authority helping us with our case for urgency in getting my husbands Baclofen pump fitted. As they all told me I should not have to be doing what I have to do, ie acting as a human hoist, on duty 24/7 etc.

He had it noted that his pain levels were not under control but it seemed that no one was interested. I felt that they only wanted to treat what he was in for, getting him back to the community “care” (?) as soon as possible. Sadly I feel that no one I dealt with seemed to give a damn about the holistic well being of the patient any more.

One thing I found alarming on my visit were the provided commodes. It had a hard plastic seat that someone with older thin skin should not be using for fear of pressure sores, skin shearing. Also the foot tray had been removed meaning that the disabled are having their feet dragged across the floor, increasing the chances of falling out of the commode. The one we had was particularly dangerous as it had the tray metal ring still attached, a trapping point for patients feet. I feel this is very very dangerous.

My poor husband had to be dragged back home for a shower where he could be safely handled, with bed baths in between.

I do wish the people who buy these things would put some more thought into the needs of the patient before they buy.