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Wound care post surgery

Posted By aprilcw49

"Wound care post surgery"

About: Northam Health Service / Cancer care

(as the patient),

I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 while I lived in Geraldton. I had my surgery there and had my first contact with the breast cancer nurse after my initial diagnosis Northam in 2021, and I was referred to the breast cancer nurse in Northam. Having her seamlessly resume my care, coming to my home whenever she had pre-planned with me, and at other times when I contacted her with queries and concerns, made my journey less traumatic.

Unfortunately, late in 2025, I was again diagnosed with breast cancer, this time in the other breast. I was very upset to find that the current breast cancer nurse in Northam no longer comes to the home, and that even with my discharge from the metropolitan hospital just 3 days post-surgery, I was required to attend the Northam Hospital daily for management of my drain and wound, or for any discussion with the breast cancer nurse.

I found this very disruptive to my family life, as it required my husband to drive me to those appointments and he has many health issues of his own. I’m not sure if the lack of home visits is an across-the-board decision, or if it’s just a local decision, and I would value feedback about this.

Without the home visits this time, I have certainly found the post-op journey much more stressful and would hope that this letter will cause you to reconsider that decision.

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Responses

Response from Basil Paulose, Acting Regional Nursing & Midwifery Director, Nursing and Midwifery Services, WA Country Health Service - Wheatbelt last month
Basil Paulose
Acting Regional Nursing & Midwifery Director, Nursing and Midwifery Services,
WA Country Health Service - Wheatbelt

Submitted on 30/01/2026 at 7:14 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia on 2/02/2026 at 10:33 AM

picture of Basil Paulose

Dear aprilcw49,

Thank you for taking the time to tell your story. We are very sorry to hear how difficult this period of recovery has been for you, and that the arrangements for your post operative care added further stress at an already challenging time.

We have shared your feedback with our cancer nursing team. At Northam Health Service, our Breast Care Nurse provides care coordination, information and emotional support, while wound and drain care is provided through our hospital based wound care service. We recognise that this is different from the home based support you previously received, and we understand how this change may have affected your recovery. Your story highlights the importance of clear communication about what patients can expect when returning home after surgery.

We also acknowledge the significant impact that daily travel had on you and your family. Your feedback will help inform our ongoing review of how post operative support is delivered, including opportunities to improve flexibility and patient centred care.

If you feel comfortable, we would welcome the opportunity to speak with you directly to explain the services provided and discuss ongoing support throughout your health journey. Please contact Susan Chambers, A/Regional Coordinator Nursing & Midwifery, on 0448 023 575.

Thank you again for sharing your experience. We hope your recovery is progressing well.

Kind regards,

Basil Paulose | A/Regional Director Nursing & Midwifery

WA Country Health Service - Wheatbelt

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