I had a left knee replacement done 6 years ago, after suffering for years with my right knee, which became deformed. When I saw the consultant, my left knee was causing more pain, so it was decided to operate on that one first. The operation went so well. I stayed in only one night in hospital and recovered amazingly quickly, not needing crutches or sticks.
I left having my right knee done for too long, so knew it would be more difficult
Waiting time
I went into hospital at 7.30am and saw the anaethaetist after waiting for ages, then the head nurse, again waited ages. I was in a little bay.
Finally, asked if my bed was ready and told I could go to it and put my stuff there and get changed. Taken at 11.15am. Spinal local injections proved difficult as the spaces between my spinal column were small, it was quite uncomfortable. Actual injection worked well and I felt nothing for the duration of the knee replacement.
Out in recovery at 2pm In bed at 2.20pm. Freezing cold, asked for another blanket, which was so thin of no use. My partner brought me a blanket in from home. First night didn't sleep at all, got pain relief every hour but it didn't seem to help. Next night I slept, probably due to being so tired. Told my sodium level low, so had to stay another night in hospital, much to my dismay. All the staff lovely, but so many different people, due to changes. Hospital was very lacking. No art work, not music or TVs. even in the lounge, thought there would be a TV.
Environment
Fortunately, I used a commode only once, then could use toilet, but felt sorry for the other patients in the bay I was in, using a bedpan and the silence must be really embarrassing! Some of the other patients complained of being cold, given another blanket, which is so thin!
Food
Not much of an appetite, but food not very inspiring!
Freezing. Need better weight blankets or duvets.
Heating
Nursing staff were lovely.
Staff attitude
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