"Access to bed controls and functions"

As I reflected after posting my previously published feedback, I realised I had neglected to comment on another aspect - not related to staff but if improved could see an improvement in ward staff efficiency, in my opinion.

I noticed that in my room on the maternity ward that I could not control the fan - indeed, my midwife had to climb a chair to access the fan for me. I also couldn’t control some of the lights from the bed, so as staff entered and left leaving various lights on, it was difficult for me to turn them off when I couldn’t get out of bed. I also couldn’t manage the bed tilt function to be upright without great difficulty. The Hill-rom bed has that function on the outside rod of the bed, so I needed to use my phone camera as a mirror to locate it, so that I could sit up to eat without hurting my Caesarian incision or causing lower lung compression. Having to ask staff to assist with environmental and equipment controls takes them away from, I believe, more important tasks and in my opinion, reduces the independence of the patient.

Thank you for the opportunity to add these reflections for your consideration.