I support this campaign 100%. I was lucky enough to have a fairly straightforward birth but even then was exhausted, hungry, in a lot of pain (stitches), somewhat abandoned and had no idea what to do with myself (where the toilets, showers were, how to get food etc) or my baby (bf, nappies etc). So I can only imagine what it's like if you have had a traumatic birth/surgery as well.Â
To add my two pennies:Â
-- laminated cards in each cubicle and outlining the wardÂ
- map of ward, where facilities are, what facilities exist (showers, baths, bf room, where to get food, get drink and at what times)
- uniform explanations
- how often you can expect to see a hcp (eg straightforward birth - checks this often, for c section - checks this often)Â
- what you are expected to do - change your baby's nappy, bathe your baby etc and where facilities are (bowl for warm water, bin for nappies etc), what to do if you go for a shower (take baby with you/leave baby etc), what to do if you go for a wee etcÂ
-- I also think that a copy of this info should be given to you in your ante natal appt. Eg I have 2 hospitals I could go to, so that's only 2 leaflets that would need to be given out. If it included things the hospital expect you to bring as well that would be helpful - I had a massive bag (first timer!) but no cotton wool and no nappy bags. Hospital were v grumpy with me about this and refused to offer me any cotton wool after the first nappy change. Had to send DH out on emergency cotton wool mission.Â
-- a joint code of conduct for both patients and staff: both are expected to be polite and patient etcÂ
-- a mumsnet survey given to new mothers at first cmw visit post birth. If we collect hard data then we have evidence with which to lobby the powers that be.Â
I also think we should be campaigning longer term for more resource as that is the root of the problem. Information is useful but only a bandage to the actual issue.Â
Am happy to help in this campaign if you need any.Â