I’m Pat and I live in Teignmouth. I’m married with two children (son and daughter) and three grandchildren, including two young boys under 10 years old.
I was fortunate to be offered to have a hip replacement operation at the Nightingale. I had been feeling pain since 2013 and it wasn’t until 2020 that the solution of a hip replacement was identified and I was added to the NHS waiting list. I had my pre-operative assessment in January 2022, where they assessed if I was in a good physical state to have surgery, and then in March I had the operation.
My first impressions of the Nightingale – lovely new environment, spacious, clean, bright and light. The high-tech provision was obvious.
But one of the things that brings together the ethos of the place are the staff. All the staff explained everything clearly at every point – who they were, their role and what they would do, and what would be happening next. They answered all the questions I had. They gave support and encouragement and showed patience. I felt relaxed and reassured.
The anaesthetist spoke to me throughout the operation checking on my comfort and if I had any concerns. I remained quite awake (I think) throughout the operation listening to music. I will get a softer pair of headphones for next time! Shoulders were a little sore and aching during the latter part of the operation due to the position I was in but, if that was all, happy to put up with that.
Whilst I was finishing up in theatre, the team kept in touch with my wife and let her know the operation was completed and went well. I was astounded that the surgeon had taken the time to speak to my wife so soon and appreciated that so much.
Because I was the last patient to be operated on that day, I stayed overnight, but most patients were able to go home the same day as their operation. No need for televisions. Pre-occupied with reading, listening to music, general observations of patients and staff, exercises with the physios. The atmosphere in the ward was relaxed and calming.
Again the night staff were efficient, caring and professional. Had a pain-free night, slept but not a deep sleep, and awoke feeling surprisingly good at 6.00am.
My wife collected me from the Nightingale at about 11.30am and took me home. I received follow–up calls by staff the following day and a week later, which were welcomed and any questions I had were answered readily.
The operation itself has immediately improved my wellbeing. It’s given me the opportunity to begin to do those things that for the last three years or more I’ve been doing less and less of, or even none. Boating, fishing, running, playing with my two young grandchildren. I’m beginning to have more of an active family life, which I think is so important. This wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for the Nightingale, so I thank you very much for that.
My key bit of advice for patients is to prepare as well as you can. The experience has shown me the importance of doing daily exercises – general, legs and core – during the months before the operation. Although very difficult to remain motivated at times, the efforts are no doubt helping my recovery. I do believe very strongly that to achieve something you have to put the work in. Be confident that you can.