Debrief Meeting at the Hospital

[EnchantingRaven]

I was wondering how long it took for you to receive a letter in the post inviting you to a debrief meeting? I’ve seen a few posts of people saying they went through the debrief service at their hospitals. I (think) I was told when I gave birth to my LG I would be invited to a debrief meeting around 6-8 weeks time (she’s coming upto 5 weeks now)

I had a very traumatic labour and don’t remember a lot of it. (Horrific induction, pre eclampsia, projectile vomiting throughout, forceps, sepsis, 2nd degree tear, episiotomy 1200ml blood loss, bags of fluids, Manuel removal of placenta, blood transfusions and my kidneys were failing - very eventual! LG is perfect and healthy thankfully)

Am I best just waiting another week or contacting the hospital directly to ask? I don’t want to bother them as I’m sure they are busy etc if it’s not needed. I know it probably sounds stupid but I’m eager to attend as I have a lot of questions and I just want to understand / remember what exactly happened and why, so I can hopefully move on!

Hi there all,

We're moving this thread to Postnatal Health at OP's request.

Hi Op; your birth sounds really similar to mine!! I think you have to request a debrief; I don't think it's automatic?

Thanks for the reply and sorry to hear you went through the same thing.

Do you know how I request one? I’ve had a look online and I can’t seem to find any information on there? Midwife seemed to suggest I call the consultants receptionist and ask when the meeting is. Although she did seem unsure of the process in general to be honest.

I'm assuming you are U.K. based op andcwe are talking about the nhs? Ignore my post if not.

I'm not sure on the process in relation to post birth debriefs but I would advise 1 speaking to your health visitor they should have experience with this and know who to speak to. If they aren't helpful I would try PALS they are normally brought up when speaking of complaints but their title is patient advice and liaison services you are a patient who needs advice they should be able to help direct you. Not all PALS are easily accessible from my experience but if your health visitor doesn't have answers I hope they will!

Hope you get to have the conversation you need

I'd go consultants secretary first - to ask if she's had a request for a debrief and take it from there. The secretary would know if one's been booked and if not would be involved in the booking process and should know how to request one.

If no joy - PALs they'll be able to advise you.

Health visitors are community people their links to hospital (especially obstetric teams) will be minimal.