"My experience as a emergency patient"

In June I stumbled on gumnut sized rock on footpath while walking to Vinnies, Peart Street, Leongatha

Passers-by came to my assistance by calling ambulance and my husband and protecting me from the rain.

-ambulance officers gave me painkillers and took me to Leongatha Hospital Emergency Department

-nurse took accident history and medical history, gave more painkillers

-xray of left ankle shows # and displacement of distal end of fibula

-The Dr discharged me home with instructions-non weight bearing with Moonboot on and use walker-see GP in 2-3 weeks to review. Begin weight bearing as tolerated while using moonboot 5-6 weeks then use stiff supportive shoes, no orthopaedic referral given or advised, Endone and Panadol as required for pain

A few days later physiotherapist, Jaycee, from Pilates Choice came for home visit, I recall they were surprised no orthopaedic referral given, helped me with exercises for arm/shoulder strength and walker usage

By July I was unable to use walker comfortably, picked up wheelchair and wheelie walker from my relative.

Several days later - Appt with GP, Dr Sonya Mirboo North-Urgent referral sent for orthopaedic surgeon appointment, Mr Ben.

Several days later again -Appt with Mr Ben's, Yarragon Clinic

Ac couple of days later to Maryvale Private Hospital, surgery to fix #left distal end of fibula with plate and 8 screws

The following day I was discharged from Maryvale Private Hospital with painkillers script and strictly non weight bearing till follow up with surgeon, xray 3 weeks after surgery/leave dressing intact unless any problems/make appointment for Mr Ben following xray

In August I had an appointment with GP, Dr Sonya, ankle dressing changed, wound checked due to pain then redressed-all OK

Xray Lt ankle a few days later.

A couple of days later - Appt with Mr Ben in Traralgon Clinic, stitches removed, site checked and cleaned, all good, instructions-continue in moonboot non weight bearing, appointment in 3 weeks to see Mr Ben.

In September appt with Mr Ben, Yarragon, progress from non weight bearing to weight bearing as tolerated, with walker then without walker

Several days later, I was able to weight bear, in moonboot with walker.