"Excellence of care"

After a partial amputation of my thumb, I attended the Latrobe Regional Hospital Emergency Department. Following rapid triage, I was cared for by Nurse Practitioner, Frank.

I would like to compliment Frank for his clinical care and LRH for their implementation of the Nurse Practitioner model of care in the ED. Under a traditional medical model of care in an emergency department, I could expect to be seen by a nurse, reviewed by an HMO, referred to a Registrar, discussed with a surgeon, and only then received full clinical care and referral for ongoing specialist care at another centre.

In contrast to that journey, Frank was able to rapidly assess my injury, immediately conduct a nerve block and dress the thumb, administer appropriate antibiotics and ordered an x-ray. He then referred me to a specialist plastic surgeon and discussed my care, arranging admission at a metropolitan centre. Frank also prescribed discharge medication and ensured this was dispensed appropriately.

Frank provided comprehensive, efficient and effective care. He facilitated rapid treatment and fast-tracked comprehensive specialist intervention.

His clinical conduct and the model of care are a compliment to LRH.