Recently I fell on my neck, shoulder and head and presented immediately at one of the remote nursing posts with severe neck pain and a limited range of motion following the injury. I was attended to immediately and staff were very friendly and caring however despite these symptoms, the possibility of a neck fracture was not discussed or considered in the initial assessment. This oversight could have had serious implications for my health and safety.
Following an x-ray confirming I had a fracture in my neck I presented at the emergency department. Again I was admitted very quickly and the nursing staff were friendly and caring. I thankfully suffered no additional injury after my initial fall but I do have some concerns regarding my management after admission.
On admission I was not provided with any guidance on how to care for my injury. This included instructions on movement, positioning, or other critical aspects of managing a neck fracture. I arrived in a trauma collar fitted at the nursing post but this was removed and for a long period of time (just under 24 hours) I had no neck support provided while awaiting results, consultations and for staff to locate the correct brace.
I believe clear instructions at the time of admission are essential to ensure patient safety and prevent risk of further injury. The lack of clear instructions at admission lead to uncertainty as both myself and many of the staff were unclear on how to manage essential aspects of care, such as movement, toileting, transfers and sleeping.
While I am very grateful for the care I received and am recovering from my fracture I do want to highlight that consistent information and instructions regarding the management of a spinal fracture is important.
"Neck fracture resulting in hospital admission"
About: Geraldton Hospital / Emergency Department Geraldton Hospital Emergency Department Geraldton 6530 Mount Magnet Health Centre Mount Magnet Health Centre Mount Magnet 6638
Posted by remotetraveller (as ),
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference
››
Responses
See more responses from Margaret Sturdy
See more responses from Jody Rolston
See more responses from Margaret Sturdy
See more responses from Margaret Sturdy