Dad 'bed blocking'

margaretclare

Further to this discussion, now DH and I know a bit more about what is involved in the treatment of BPH (benign prostatic enlargement) - see TV ads about this, the commonest reason for difficulties in peeing in older men.

DH had a lengthy conversation with a urology specialist who is a Professor in his field but prefers to be called 'Tony'. Informed consent of the patient is vital - to this end Tony showed DH pictures of the different procedures and options that were being discussed. DH's reaction was 'Toooooo much information!' Following on from the more basic examinations, this week DH has had a trans-rectal ultrasound of prostate and biopsy. For this he had to be able to co-operate. More than likely he's looking at a laser removal of prostate via the urethra after the biopsy results have been discussed with him. This involves a general anaesthetic but probably only an overnight stay. All the new developments make recovery time much quicker.

You can see that all this would NOT be at all possible with a frail gentleman who could not take in and understand, and agree to, all that was being discussed. With the heart condition he probably couldn't lie on his back for the laser surgery. The indwelling catheter is probably the only way he can pee at all.

Although DH doesn't want to know TOO much about it all, for me it has been of interest because I remember the types of surgery for this common male affliction when I was on a surgical ward as a student nurse in the late 1950s. There's no comparison at all with what is possible now. But it could not be done on anyone who's confused, that really is obvious.

missile

This must be very upsetting for you.

I would speak to your fathers GP. He / she should have been copied on reports by the hospital and ought to be able to help.

Anyone can ask for copies of your own medical records from the hospital. If your father can counter sign the form you will be able to request copies of his.

margaretclare

missile wrote: »

This must be very upsetting for you.

I would speak to your fathers GP. He / she should have been copied on reports by the hospital and ought to be able to help.

Anyone can ask for copies of your own medical records from the hospital. If your father can counter sign the form you will be able to request copies of his.

Nowadays the patient gets sent a copy of a letter from hospital consultant to the GP. Well, that's what seems to happen recently when either DH or I have seen a hospital consultant.

Errata

It may have been what happened in your case, but I don't think it's standard practice. Patients can ask to be copied in on correspondence between a consultant and their GP, but it will not contain the detailed information that appears in their hospital notes.

missile

margaretclare wrote: »

Nowadays the patient gets sent a copy of a letter from hospital consultant to the GP. Well, that's what seems to happen recently when either DH or I have seen a hospital consultant.

Not here it doesn't. In any case that would not help soolin.