Walls have ears

Sometimes the medical staff can forget that they are discussing details about the patient in earshot of them, and their carers. Yesterday, one of the Oncology consultants was discussing whether or not to move Vicki back to the Oncology ward with one of the CICU staff, right outside Vicki's cubicle, with the door open.

This gave us an interesting insight; 24 hours early we were told "You won't stay on CICU any longer than you need to". The overheard conversation suggested that although Vicki was well enough to return to the Oncology ward, the ward sister didn't want her back, as they were too busy. The very same ward sister came down to see Vicki and dismissively said "You don't want to come back just yet, it's much quieter down here." Oh really, and when have you ever tried to sleep in an intensive care ward? On top of that, if she'd actually been thinking about what is best for Vicki, she may have realised that back on the Oncology ward she's got things to do, and can have visitors. On top of that, there are no toilets on the CICU ward (as they expect their patients to be unconscious or of nappy wearing age) so this means having a commode to hand. So not exactly well equipped for a fully conscious teenager.

So although Vicki's getting better, she's really cheesed off at still being in CICU. All very frustrating and so close to the end of her treatment. I was interested to read of the Government's plans to provide 1:1 cancer care if elected. Pity this level of care can't be provided without the bribery required to have it re-elected. From talking to the other parents of the Oncology ward it's clear that children's cancer care is in need of an overhaul. Children, probably more than any other group would be so much better off if they could be treated at home. This is a long way off from where we are now, with Vicki being treated 40 miles from home. I can't see how this gap could be adequately funded, but of course, money aside, the sentiment is positive.

And whilst I'm on my political high horse, what about so called "end of life" care. Palliative medicine is severely underfunded, and Hospices are only about 1/3 funded by the tax payer. I am the only one that thinks relying on charitable donations for 2/3rds of your running costs is scandalous?