Best tests?

I can’t comment on the medical aspects of Rods illness but Chris was asked if he wanted a DNR when he was admitted with severe neutropenia recently. I think it’s pretty standard ….. Chris told me he said ….. not this time! Try not to read anything more into it but that’s hard I know. I find it hard to accept that nothing can be done at all to help your husbands pain ….. I remember losing it withhe medical staff when my dad was so ill and neglected in hospital …… we called social services and reported cruelty to a vulnerable adult  …. action was taken. I’m not suggesting that’s the answer but finitely try demanding to see someone senior. I’m so sorry for what you are all going through  

Geraldine xx

Thank you, so much, Geraldine. That gives me some reassurance that he hasn't been written off completely xxx

I’ve just remembered this as well …. Martha’s rule.

The purpose of Martha's Rule is to give all patients and their families a right to seek an urgent second opinion if a patient's condition is rapidly worsening or if it is felt they are not getting the care they need.

Who do we ask, Geraldine? 

I would guess the ward manager or senior clinician in the first instance and I guess it would have to be a forceful demand. I only know what was reported on the news it’s quite recent  …. probably would needs some threats of publicity if the hospital are not on board with it but I think it’s a legal right to second opinion now. I wonder if others on the forum might have some experience. 

I'm so sorry that your husband is suffering, from your description it would sound that he needs a drain to release the fluid accumulation because without the drain I'm not sure how else it will leave his body and will just cause him more pressure and pain. 

A PET scan is a type of CT scan to the best of my knowledge and a laparoscopy is the term used for keyhole surgery which has been used for my dad to look at his liver and for biopsies but this is normally booked in days in advance. 

Sorry not much help. Thinking of you both. X

Every bit of advice helps, lovely. As does just knowing there are people out there treading a similar pathway and supporting us.

Thank you xxx

I'm sorry. How are you doing? Xxx

Don’t read too much into the DNR I was asked about this when I was first admitted in October and it was decided I did not need it at that time but the doctor said it was something they had to ask to put on file ! Hope all goes well with the stent being put in ! Could you phone the macmillan help line ??  Other than that PALS ?? Sending hugs Tricia x

How are you doing today Lorraine? How is Rod?
Thinking of you.

G  xx