Talked to my sister on the phone this morning before we
left to visit her at the hospital. I could barely understand
her...obviously short of breath, struggling, wheezing.
When we got to the hospital I questioned the nurse that
was in the room taking Carol's vitals. She hadn't noticed
any issues. She contacted the doctor on duty for the hospital.
He showed up quickly, did a short assessment and ordered
a chest x-ray and blood cultures. The x-rays showed infection.
She is in a hospital fergawdsake. Surrounded by medical
professionals 24/7 fershitsake. NO ONE noticed??
If I hadn't pointed it out when would it have been addressed?
They now have her on two antibiotics. Blood work didn't show
full-blown pneumonia but it did show another harder to detect
version. I really, really wanted to slap someone.
What happens to patients who have no advocates? No family
to question what's happening? What should be happening?
My advice...don't fully trust anyone. Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Pay attention to everything...everything. You might be the best
reason your loved one will get better and be able to come home.
I learned years ago about hospitals. Someone in the family needs to be close, or there during the entire visit. The best of professionals are limited in policing the mediocre, and bad professionals. Mistakes, and apathy abound. Being vigilant may save a loved one.
ReplyDeleteAgree, Jess.
ReplyDeleteNow her oncologist is saying she has pneumonia. Bad.
ReplyDeleteWhite cell count has improved some but still low.