Share review of Diana Princess of Wales Hospital

Diana Princess of Wales Hospital 2021-04-11 Person 2 5 0

I have a physical disability and was told it was a ‘walk-in’ clinic and they couldn’t do anything to help the fact that I couldn’t sit for more than 15 minutes, sitting causes severe pain as I’m just 3 weeks post op after major spinal surgery. No empathy was shown by the staff. I was finally found a bed so I could lay, however that was only after some debate by the staff and a 2 hour wait. I was also told I’d have to give the bed up if it was needed elsewhere. I understand there’s probably a shortage of beds and things are really difficult right now but saw no real compassion or had any kind words from the nursing staff. I was told I might have to wait 5 hours again today, I don’t mind waiting my turn but it would physically harm me to sit for that length of time. I told the nurse that I’d have to leave and she read me the riot act about blood clots, rightly so, I do understand the severity and risk. She was definitely not happy but couldn’t seem to understand that I actually can’t sit for that long, I wasn’t trying to be difficult or queue jump. I was only there because A & E told me to attend. I had spoken to the nurse in charge but with no response from her, she simply walked away. The doctor, Naja (?) was incredibly kind and helpful and could see how I was struggling, he went out of his way to ensure I wasn’t there, in pain, any longer than needed. He also made sure I was informed and agreed with his decision on my treatment. No chairs were being cleaned as people left. I was amazed and very grateful when a lady came with a tea trolley but was shocked when she served a mentally challenged lady who had a big Nil By Mouth sign next to her head. Five members of the nursing staff were stood the other side of the bay window drinking tea but didn’t notice. Communication between departments seems non existent. I was told yesterday that today’s scan was for my gallbladder but when I got there I was told it was a scan for a blood clot on my lung! I knew and was told differently at A & E but wasn’t believed and they insisted on me seeing a particular speciality doctor because the paperwork said so.

Communication between departments is abysmal. The A & E doctor did not understand the nuances of my situation when I attended yesterday so although I was kept for five and a half hours, the paperwork she completed still wasn’t correct. English wasn’t her first language, which is fine, however just ask another member of staff to help. Just empathise, be friendly with patients, we don’t want to be there either and are often in a lot of pain. I understand some patients are difficult to deal with and the staff might have to grit their teeth but don’t treat everyone with contempt. Not everyone is going to be a problem or give them abuse. Communicate with the patients, we’re worried and just want to know what is happening to us. Talk quietly to us, afford us at least a little privacy when the bay is full of patients.