"Compassionate and caring"

I had to present to Margaret River Hospital ED recently for an infection related issue, following back surgery in Perth. The staff in ED were excellent, particulary Martin, the Dr on duty and the nursing staff. I was placed on IV antibiotics and released with a request to return the next day for another dose of IV antibiotics. 

My return visit was also pretty good, although the ED was much busier and being a low-grade visit, had to wait a while for my treatment. At all times the nursing staff kept me informed and updated on progress. 

Unfortunately, the treatment was not getting the desired results and I had to make a third visit to the ED two days later. I didn't think the Triage nurse took my issue seriously at first and in my opinion, found their attitude dismissive and short. However, when I was treated by the ED doctor (Gerard) I could not fault the service I received from him and the nursing staff. Once again they were compassionate and caring, showed a sense of urgency in treating me and kept me informed at all times. 

This time, their recommendation was for me to be admitted to the hospital for further treatment with regular, specific IV antibiotics. My admission later that day was quick and simple and once again, I was extremely impressed with the nursing staff.

My original ED Dr, Martin, who coincidentally is also my local GP, came to see me that evening and I believe he was sufficiently concerned that he followed up with the orthopaedic specialists in Bunbury and made the quick decision to transfer me to Bunbury for further assessment. I have a history of osteomyelitis and this, along with my raised temperature, was what prompted their quick action. I was transferred shortly after by the fantastic Margaret River St Johns Ambulance Team, who cared for me until I was admitted to the Bunbury Hospital ED. 

For such a small regional hospital I was very, very impressed with the level of service they provided. This hospital has tremendous community involvement, especially from the local doctors who man the ED on a roster basis. I was impressed with all the nursing staff, with the exception of one triage nurse, maybe I caught them on a bad day. They were so compassionate and caring and did everything they could to make my stay as comfortable as possible. My short stay in the main hospital was comfortable, pleasant facilities and excellent service. I can't recommend the Margaret River Hospital and ED highly enough.