"Great care during an admission with an eating disorder"

I was admitted to Albany Health Campus mid last year for treatment of Anorexia and spent 9 weeks as an inpatient, prior to transferring to another health service's eating disorder program.

This was a very challenging and a difficult time, as i was very unwell. I felt the staff on the medical ward, did a great job in caring for me, despite my challenges. A special shout out to Stewart (assistant in nursing) for his consistency and support in my care.

The multidisciplinary team were collaborative and I felt involved in my care, which was very important to me. (as this had often not been the case, in previous admission with the same illness).

Catherine the clinical nurse manager, listened to my concerns and difficulties with compassion and empathy and when i was really struggling she reassured and supported me. Reiterating that the difficulties and challenges i was experiencing were part of my illness and not my fault. This was important as my experience with an eating disorder this can be very difficult as you always feel that its your fault and your a horrible person because of it.

My nutritional care was provided by 2 great dietitians Ali and Anna. From day one, they truly listened to my difficulties. The treated me with respect and i never felt judged regarding my struggles with my nutritional intake and eating disorder behaviors. The listened to my frequent negotiations around my meal plan daily, and they never waivered, they took time to explain the importance of nutrition for my physical and mental health.

The supported and advocated for me when i was physical and emotion mess, and always with a smile on there face, with care, compassion and no judgement.

Chance the psychiatry registrar, also listened and took considerable time talking thing over with me, through out my stay. I felt that he was invested in my care. We did not always agree on things (i was very unwell) but we would talk things through and i never felt judged by him. I think this is definitely what is needed in the eating disorder space and unfortunately has not been my experience to date.

Thank you to the PCA's, especially Deb, who knew how i took my coffee and always did a great job of cleaning my room, while having a chat, that was lovely. Also Tony at reception, each day as i went down stairs for fresh air, she would smile, say hello and have a wee chat, this was also really refreshing. Its nice to be greeted with a smile.

So thank you to all the staff who cared for me during my long and difficult admission on medical ward. This is a very busy ward and I noticed the staff never stop. I think you all do a fantastic job, often under what I feel are challenging circumstances.