We went with the skinny portion to the hospital at six this morning. Remarkably promptly he was wheeled off theatre-wards at 7.15. So we came home and waited. Not patiently, not happily, but we waited. We were told that he was scheduled for a four hour operation - which would probably start at 9, and would have an hour or so in recovery after that. 'Ring the hospital around 2, to see where he is.'
Which I diligently did. Patient enquiries told me he had gone to Ward 10A (surgical) and put me through to the ward. The first sister said that she had never heard of him - but would check. She came back and told me which room he was in. 'I cannot discuss his condition over the phone' and then added 'but I can tell you he is recovering well. Afternoon visiting hours start at 3pm.'
So we arrived at Ward 10A at 3pm to discover he was not, and had not been there. There was a space for him (name on wall) it is true, but that was all there was. Hiss and spit.
Further enquiries revealed that he was still in recovery, expected to arrive at the ward 'in the next half hour'. So we waited. And waited. He was finally wheeled past at quarter to five.
Respiratory issues had kept him in recovery. If his pain was addressed, his breathing slowed to unacceptable levels. Hiss and spit.
When he arrived he was conscious, breathing, and his pain was manageable. All good. The operation seems to have been completed satisfactorily (of course I haven't spoken to the surgeon). There are some bleeding issues, but they are not unexpected. His condition will be closely monitored tonight.
He was drifting off, so we left. I am not certain that he will remember we were there - though the bags we brought in and unpacked should give him a hint in the morning when he surfaces again.
He is not comfortable - but he is alive.
I am enjoying wine o'clock and will have an early night.
More updates, when I have more to report...
Which I diligently did. Patient enquiries told me he had gone to Ward 10A (surgical) and put me through to the ward. The first sister said that she had never heard of him - but would check. She came back and told me which room he was in. 'I cannot discuss his condition over the phone' and then added 'but I can tell you he is recovering well. Afternoon visiting hours start at 3pm.'
So we arrived at Ward 10A at 3pm to discover he was not, and had not been there. There was a space for him (name on wall) it is true, but that was all there was. Hiss and spit.
Further enquiries revealed that he was still in recovery, expected to arrive at the ward 'in the next half hour'. So we waited. And waited. He was finally wheeled past at quarter to five.
Respiratory issues had kept him in recovery. If his pain was addressed, his breathing slowed to unacceptable levels. Hiss and spit.
When he arrived he was conscious, breathing, and his pain was manageable. All good. The operation seems to have been completed satisfactorily (of course I haven't spoken to the surgeon). There are some bleeding issues, but they are not unexpected. His condition will be closely monitored tonight.
He was drifting off, so we left. I am not certain that he will remember we were there - though the bags we brought in and unpacked should give him a hint in the morning when he surfaces again.
He is not comfortable - but he is alive.
I am enjoying wine o'clock and will have an early night.
More updates, when I have more to report...
