Putting people first is what we do every day, and our efforts are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and their families. The following “thumbs up” was written by a grateful VGH patient, and we have obtained his permission to share his compliments and name with you. Because I take Warfarin daily, it was advisable to travel to Vancouver a few days in advance. I entered the Pre-Admissions office on September 27, 2012. The process was handled in a very friendly, efficient, and pleasant manner. A second appointment on the same day to meet Dr. Luke Chen was also completed in empathetic and efficient manner. Here I was instructed how to self-inject an alternate medication to Warfarin. I had been somewhat apprehensive about this aspect but it was really quite simple after the instructions were provided.
During pre-admissions it was decided that an update echocardiogram would be advisable so that was scheduled for the following day. Again, everything was done efficiently and in a pleasant manner.
When I was wheeled into the surgery on October 2 the staff there did everything to make me feel comfortable and relaxed. They introduced themselves to me and presented a positive view of their working relationships in their friendly banter. I felt very relaxed and assured by their demeanour.
Dr. Donald Anderson removed the large mass from my neck so effectively that no external bleeding, nor seepage, plagued me at any time following the surgery. I took only one tablet of the prescribed pain medications after leaving the hospital the next day, as the resultant discomfort was so minimal. The healing of my neck has gone very well and the incision line is hardly noticeable. Thank you Dr. Anderson for your skills and I also appreciated your sense of humour when discussing my surgery on two previous occasions.
I appreciated the decision to keep me in the hospital overnight. I was very well cared for in every way. The nurses on duty introduced themselves to me, were pleasant, helpful, and very efficient. I was in a semi-private room during the night of Oct. 2 and the person sharing the room was obviously experiencing much distress during the night. The nurses on duty were frequently called by her and one, or two sometimes, responded very quickly and assisted her. (I was not sleeping soundly so I was aware of the activity)
Whenever I needed assistance the same nurses were immediately available for me. They also monitored my surgery, oxygen, IV feed, and another piece of equipment massaging my lower legs throughout the night. At no time was I neglected in spite of how busy the nurses were. They were amazing, supportive, and empathetic.
When leaving the area the following morning, Oct. 3, I expressed my sincere appreciation to the staff at the nursing station. I also commented that I hoped the patient who was sharing the semi-private with me appreciated the fact that she was receiving virtual private nursing care. I also hoped her family was aware and appreciated the excellent care that was being provided for her.
I apologize for not writing sooner. I do hope that my appreciation will be shared with staff, Dr. Anderson, and, if possible, with the staff on the floor where I spent the night. I do not actually know which floor, or room I was in, as it was changed from the original plan. I was also not paying close attention to those details.
Many many thanks to all who were involved.