Coming to Sheffield Children’s: Read a mum’s account of her visit to hospital with her daughter Matilda

Meet one year old Matilda!

She has developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and makes regular visits to Sheffield Children’s to see our Trauma and Orthopaedic team since she had a closed reduction under general anaesthetic (when the ball of the hip joint is put back into its socket) last summer.

We asked her mum, Nicola, about their most recent appointment.

“When we arrived at Outpatients, we were greeted by friendly staff members and volunteers who checked the time and reason for our appointment as you can only enter the building up to 15 minutes before your appointment. Only one parent/carer can only currently attend a child’s appointment and face coverings are asked to be worn by everyone visiting. This information was all sent to us by post prior to our visit.

“We were then checked in by a volunteer who asked some questions and used the touch screen for us. There are far fewer chairs and they are spread around the outpatients area, yet there are still enough for everyone. I saw regular cleaning taking place whilst waiting for our appointment and everyone was wearing masks.”

As part of Matilda’s follow-up care, she has regular X-rays to check her hip is still in the joint properly.

“We were called for our X-ray and check-up as we normally would be, we followed clearly marked out social distancing markings on the floor and the X-ray technicians and registrar were wearing extra PPE.

“At all points during our visit, we felt extremely safe as it was clear that Sheffield Children’s have put stringent guidelines in place and are ensuring they are followed closely. What I loved the most was that everyone we came in contact with was still very friendly and welcoming, and our daughter was not fazed by the whole experience. Lots of staff members were waving and talking to her throughout our visit!

“Thank you Sheffield Children’s Hospital, you really are incredible and we are lucky to have you.”