23 June 2023

One Thursday afternoon in March, three-year-old Quinn complained to his mum, Adele, about a sore leg. By Saturday morning, Quinn was in excruciating pain—unable to walk, not using the bathroom, and in severe distress.

Adele rushed Quinn to the Heidelberg Priority Care Clinic, where he was then referred to the Austin Hospital for an X-ray of his leg. Carrying her son into the Emergency Department, Adele did her best to comfort Quinn, who was in agonising pain and completely exhausted. Despite his usual aversion to doctor visits, Quinn knew something was wrong and tried to put on a brave face.

Quinn underwent a series of tests and examinations – x-ray, ultrasound, and needed an intravenous (IV) line put in. This was his final straw, and he broke down. “Putting in the IV line was very traumatic for all of us,” Adele confessed.

The tests revealed that Quinn had a septic hip, where his hip joint had become infected, causing significant swelling and pain. Immediate intervention was necessary to prevent long-term damage.

Adding to Quinn's distress, he was asked to fast in preparation for surgery scheduled the following day. The combination of physical discomfort and fasting only heightened his anxiety.

After a successful surgery, Quinn's journey to recovery presented its own challenges. He was moved to the Paediatric Ward, where he required a drain tube, continued IV antibiotics, and regular monitoring.

Tests and examinations revealed that Quinn had a septic hip.

Over the past few days, Quinn had experienced a whirlwind of pain and confusion, resulting in him hiding under his blankets whenever an unknown adult walked into his room.

It was during this difficult time that Paediatric Nursing team first met Quinn. Unit Manager Jenny Spiller led the team of experienced nurses - all armed with decades of experience under their belt, and all of whom possessed a secret weapon to break through Quinn’s barriers.

"The nurses immediately got the bubbles to help draw him out, which worked," recalls Jenny. "Though he was still a bit tentative, it helped him relax and understand that he was in a safe space."

The Orthopaedics and Nursing teams monitored Quinn's progress, providing a friendly and cheerful atmosphere to ease his anxieties.

Cautious interactions with the nursing staff turned into ‘boo’ games in the corridors, virtual reality experiences that transported Quinn to a beach, and moments of creativity as he drew pictures for his nurses and doctors.

Slowly but surely, Quinn began to regain his usual self.

Jenny and her team understood the importance of maintaining Quinn's sense of security. When it was time for the drain tube to be removed, they ensured the procedure took place in a separate room - respecting Quinn's room as his sanctuary and minimise any disruptions to his safe space.

The exceptional level of care Quinn received extended beyond physical treatment.

The exceptional level of care Quinn received extended beyond physical treatment. It was an experience that left a lasting impact, thanks to the dedicated professionals who understood the significance of emotional support.

"He's an amazing three-year-old, and a lot of credit goes to his mother, who worked closely with the team, always discussing the best approach and providing unwavering support for the necessary treatments," acknowledges Jenny.

Today, Quinn is a healthy and happy young boy, embracing life with joy and gratitude. The Austin Hospital staff's dedication and compassion made a profound difference in his journey, leaving him with positive memories to cherish.

"The Austin staff were amazing," Adele affirms. "They visited him often for a chat, making his stay enjoyable. Quinn eagerly awaited their visits and vital checks. They truly turned his stay into a positive experience."
Even now, Quinn fondly recalls the lollipops and stickers he received during his time at the hospital, a testament to the care he received.

In the face of adversity, Quinn's story is a testament to the resilience of a young spirit and the healing power of compassion.