Susan Charitou
March 2021
Susan
Charitou
,
RN
Paediatrics
HCA Healthcare UK - The Portland Hospital
London
,
International
Sue has immense experience in her field, and it was useful to read the notes she had written prior to the pre-op appointment as they helped prepare us mentally for what was ahead.
Sue is a Clinical Nurse Specialist for Paediatric Orthopaedics and spine. Sue has worked for HCA since 1998 and is a very hard-working and valued member of the team. Sue received numerous nominations from her patients and is a true champion for the patients and her profession:
My 14-year-old daughter was admitted for spinal surgery; it was a difficult time due to COVID-19 and extremely upsetting saying goodbye to family and knowing she could not have them visit during her stay. Sue visited every day and became my daughter's constant familiar face and friend although all the nurses caring for her were remarkable. Seeing Sue reassured her and helped her recover quickly. We couldn't have asked for anymore Sue gave everything in caring for my daughter, we are extremely grateful'.
***
Sue has immense experience in her field, and it was useful to read the notes she had written prior to the pre-op appointment as they helped prepare us mentally for what was ahead. The pre-op was good to understand; the practicalities and Sue could give lots of detail on what to expect. Sue is full of energy and after the operation was a big motivator in making progress (even though it may seem a big step, the fact she said it could happen made it seem more achievable). She clarifies how both parent and child can facilitate recovery so we can go home with a positive attitude. Knowing we are doing all we can to get back to normality. I wish Sue and her team all the best and hope that many patients continue to benefit from the expert support at such a difficult time.
***
As a mum, surgery for a child is an extremely difficult and stressful time. You are not in control and your handing over the care of your most precious child to others and Sue understands that completely. As well as preparing for the operation, she took time to focus on the things that were worrying me from a mother's perspective. Nothing was too much trouble. Sue always told it like it is. Very honest so we were always prepared with what was likely to happen. She gave me her mobile number and I felt like I could ring it at any time. Sometimes you are told that but you know it's not really meant, but with Sue it so is. Her manner as well with my son was pitched at exactly the right level. Using humor but also being firm when needed to get important messages across. I am really thankful to have met Sue and she was involved in the care of my son.
My 14-year-old daughter was admitted for spinal surgery; it was a difficult time due to COVID-19 and extremely upsetting saying goodbye to family and knowing she could not have them visit during her stay. Sue visited every day and became my daughter's constant familiar face and friend although all the nurses caring for her were remarkable. Seeing Sue reassured her and helped her recover quickly. We couldn't have asked for anymore Sue gave everything in caring for my daughter, we are extremely grateful'.
***
Sue has immense experience in her field, and it was useful to read the notes she had written prior to the pre-op appointment as they helped prepare us mentally for what was ahead. The pre-op was good to understand; the practicalities and Sue could give lots of detail on what to expect. Sue is full of energy and after the operation was a big motivator in making progress (even though it may seem a big step, the fact she said it could happen made it seem more achievable). She clarifies how both parent and child can facilitate recovery so we can go home with a positive attitude. Knowing we are doing all we can to get back to normality. I wish Sue and her team all the best and hope that many patients continue to benefit from the expert support at such a difficult time.
***
As a mum, surgery for a child is an extremely difficult and stressful time. You are not in control and your handing over the care of your most precious child to others and Sue understands that completely. As well as preparing for the operation, she took time to focus on the things that were worrying me from a mother's perspective. Nothing was too much trouble. Sue always told it like it is. Very honest so we were always prepared with what was likely to happen. She gave me her mobile number and I felt like I could ring it at any time. Sometimes you are told that but you know it's not really meant, but with Sue it so is. Her manner as well with my son was pitched at exactly the right level. Using humor but also being firm when needed to get important messages across. I am really thankful to have met Sue and she was involved in the care of my son.