"My care after an hand injury"

A letter written to the Minister of Health and Medical Research by a patient:

On a public holiday I injured by hand whilst assembling a trampoline for my child-and yes it was a present. I attended the Emergency Department at Sutherland Hospital and was seen after a very short time (5-10 mins) by the triage nurse. Over the next hour I was treated and inquiries were made with the doctors at Sydney Hospital Hand Unit, including the sending of injury images via smart phones. Ultimately, I had three stitches inserted and was referred to the Hand Unit early the next day.

I received very prompt, exemplary, courteous and caring service at the hospital on this day.

I attended the Hand Unit early the next day, I was seen within the hour by the on-call surgeon and a nurse and resident. Some tests were undertaken and I was re-bandaged and sent home with a follow up visit scheduled. I received timely, expert and generous service at the hand unit on these days.

So all in all, as far as I am concerned, the Emergency Departments of the NSW hospitals I visited are doing a fine job. The staff should be congratulated and commended by you and the regional health directors.