Question:
OHSU Digestive Health Center in Portland OR; GOOD or BAD?

I am going to have my surgery at OHSU hospital in Portland, OR and I have read many bad things about the nursing staff, the transit aids and pain management staff. I am kind-of scared where I was excited before. Has anyone had these kinds of experiences? Any god experiences? Thanks for your help!    — dre_1974 (posted on March 4, 2007)

March 4, 2007
I can not say about the Digestive Health Center at OHSU. But, I can say the hospital itself is good. I had my first son there, thirteen years ago. It was a trying time, as my son was still born, and the staff there was WONDERFUL. They helped me with my grief, was wonderful to my family.....even letting the kids in.
   — tanyareed

March 4, 2007
Andrea, you are your own best advocate. When you are going through surgery and recovery, you need a family or friend member that will stay the first few days with you to help monitor your pain and keep the staff on their toes. Have them bring a small notebook and write each persons name in the book and what they do. Just doing this keeps them on their toes and keeps your care in order. Be sure they are not afraid to ask questions and take care of you. If you look like you are in pain, they need to tend to that, if you have other needs, they need to help with that. Someone to help you those first two or three days is most valuable. It gives you peace of mind that you have someone you trust with you, and it keeps the staff on their toes. If you don't have confidence in your surgeon, then don't have the surgery with them, find another. You will have a LONG relationship with this surgeon, for years to come, so be sure you trust them well. Best to you. Patricia P.
   — Patricia P

March 4, 2007
Some people told me to have my husband with me at the hospital. He is my rock, so I asked him to plan to stay, then if he did not need to he could always go home. I was very glad to have him there the whole time from Tues 2-27-07 surgery to Fri 3-2-07 home. The nurses were great, but they did not have the time to give me one on one care. They would tell me to go walk, but only head me in the right direction. My husband was a God-send. The nurses left me in a chair without a call light for 2 hrs (hubby ran a errand). If there is any way possible, you really need someone with you. There was a loveseat that folded out to a bed, next to me where he slept. God Bless you! You will do great. I am doing super!!
   — asinmouse