‘Anxious’ veteran praises tailored support from hospital staff
AN “ANXIOUS” veteran avoided emergency surgery when staff at Rotherham Hospital tailored his support – after discovering his military background was making his visit to A&E a “triggering” experience.
Steve Lowe, a former governor of Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust, attended the Urgent and Emergency Care Centre with severe stomach pain.
He said: “Hospitals are very testing places for someone like me.
“I told the staff I’m ex-military, and people with similar experiences will know that when you report to medical, you’re put through a rigorous system where you were made to feel like you were letting others down.
“Having never had surgery before and having only ever been in hospital once previously for treatment, I had significant anxiety which I expressed to staff at the pre-op stage, it was recorded on my patient record.
“They took time to tell me what they were doing, why they were doing it, and exactly what I needed to do.
“Being provided clear information and instructions allowed me to relax.
“It gave me the confidence that staff were going to help me.
“Thanks to the whole trust team, from pre-op to surgery to care staff, and to the amazing cleaning team.”
A TRFT spokesperson said: “For Steve, hospitals can trigger a familiar unease, common among those with service backgrounds, where the loss of control and the nature of the system can feel overwhelming.
“Upon identifying Steve’s anxiety, the clinical team adapted their approach to meet his specific needs.
“By simply listening and slowing the pace of his care they were able to avoid rushing him into surgery.
“Instead, they collaborated with Steve on a planned procedure, which transformed his experience into a manageable journey.”
Last year TRFT received a Silver Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme by the Ministry of Defence.
Sally Killgariff, chief operating officer and executive lead for the Trust’s Veteran Aware group, added: “Rotherham is home to a proud community of veterans and service personnel.
“Hearing about Steve’s experience highlights exactly why our Veteran Aware status is so important.
“We want our local Armed Forces community to know that we understand their unique needs and are dedicated to ensuring they feel safe and heard.”