David Oliver: How much information should patients’ families expect on acute wards?

I believe that I may have an answer to David Oliver's "biggest stressor." Until May 2017, I was, like David Oliver a Consultant in Geriatric and General Medicine.About three years ago I started to print business cards detailing my name, qualifications,title, secretary's phone number and secure NHS net email address.I used to leave a stack of these by the reception desk on the ward where my fifteen inpatients stayed. Relatives seeking more information, particularly at evenings and weekends were encouraged to take one.I answered emails at least twice a day seven days a week.I rarely spent more than fifteen minutes a day answering questions from families about diagnoses, test results, treatment and discharge plans.Clearly I needed to have patients' consent.This was rarely refused where they had capacity.I would print off the email exchange and file it in the notes next time I was on the ward.Families were extremely grateful for this service and I believe many "potential complaints" were turned into compliments.I believe it was time well spent.
Yours sincerely
Colin Borland