Mixed care (10/26/04)

Recently, I had an accident in which 911 was called and I was transported to the Jay County Hospital emergency room. I had a very rapid heartbeat (over 200) which caused me to faint/pass out and fall, hitting my face on a table, resulting in a severe laceration with 16 stitches and an overnight stay for observation.

After I got home the next day things seemed to be getting worse, with an extreme headache, 104 degree temperature, and a hard time getting my breath. So I returned to the emergency room where I was told I had pneumonia, a concussion, and possibly a broken jaw. I was admitted and stayed for approximately two days.

The care I received there was outstanding. The nurses and staff on the second floor med/surg unit were so helpful, friendly and just so nice in every way. When I got my stitches out last Friday, I let them know this by leaving them a nice thank you card with everyone’s name that I could remember. I even thought the food was very good and commend all the cooks and kitchen staff.

I also think that my pain and antibiotic treatment for the extensive dental damage and the pneumonia was handled very well as I was given morphine and other medications that helped with the extreme pain and was kept very comfortable.

However, with all good things, I think you can always find something not so good. After my discharge, I followed instructions to a T.

I wasn’t sure about my antibiotic treatment upon release, so I called the second floor about 6 a.m. the next day to make sure one of the nurses could ask the doctor about it during his morning rounds. This was the day I got my stitches out, and I was still in extreme pain in my face and jaw.

After contacting the doctor’s office and inquiring about something a little stronger (I only had two pills left) I was told that wouldn’t be possible , so I said that would be O.K. and would just like to get a refill on the medication that I had. They assured me that it would be called in to the pharmacy.

I was surprised to learn from the pharmacist that the doctor had canceled it and said I didn’t need it (this was only a day or so after release).

I think the doctor could show a little more compassion and listen to your patients if they are telling you that something is just not right. Maybe it was because I am unemployed and not able to afford a visit to your office.

I do, however, thank you and the nurses and staff at Jay County Hospital during my stay here.

Sincerely,

Greg Bird

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