Ep 26. A Life Less Ordinary

Seventy-nine-year-old Eileen is rushed to St George's Hospital after collapsing at home. The medical team is concerned about her high heart rate and fast breathing. Eileen’s daughter, Susan, describes her mother as a “force to be reckoned with” who never seems to slow down. Eileen was recently diagnosed with lung cancer and has been undergoing chemotherapy but has been managing her condition well.

In the next bed, 32-year-old Sam has dislocated his shoulder after falling off his motorbike. He was on his way to a job interview when the accident happened. The team quickly assesses Sam’s injury and provides pain relief before attempting to relocate his shoulder.

Elsewhere in A&E, 22-year-old William is brought in after being hit by a car whilst out with friends. His anxious mother, Susan desperately wants to see him, but due to Covid-19 restrictions, relatives are not allowed to be with patients in the hospital. William’s X-ray results reveal a broken arm and the medical team starts to prepare for his surgery.

In another part of the hospital, 14-year-old Hesham is brought into the Paediatric department with a dislocated knee after a kick-around with his friends. The medical team tries to reduce the dislocation under sedation, which means putting him to sleep, but things don’t go as planned.

As the episode progresses, viewers are given an insight into the personal experiences of patients who have been admitted to A&E. Susan, William's mother, talks about her fears and worries for her son's future; Eileen's daughter shares details of her mother's life and how important she is to her family. The show also provides a glimpse into the daily life of the hospital staff, from the receptionists who welcome patients to the doctors and nurses who care for them.

The program is a candid look at the work done by the National Health Service in England, and the doctors and nurses who are often pushed beyond their limits, operating on the front line of medical care. The show highlights the dedicated and skilled staff of St Georges’ Hospital and demonstrates how they provide high-quality care to patients in dire need of medical attention.

Overall, 24 Hours In A&E, Season 15 Episode 26, "A Life Less Ordinary" showcases the resilience and strength of both patients and staff in the face of adversity. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of access to medical care, and the incredible work of medical professionals and their families as they navigate the highs and lows of life-saving medicine.