I have had a long term unfiltered tracheostomy for over 25 years after a serious case of bacterial pneumonia/pleurisy which resulted in multiple chest drains & a thoracotomy. I have been concerned about how much humidity my lungs are receiving & I felt a warm humidity was more beneficial to myself rather the saline in a nebuliser. I did some research, spoke to other tracheostomy patients that used warm humidity & found a device that could be supplied on NHS but I had to refereed back to the doctor at the respiratory clinic to get the humidity system.
At this appointment the doctor told me that I don't need this warm humidifier as I was coping OK as I am & that my lungs looked OK on a previous x-ray from years ago. I was also told that the issues I was having with coughing, passing out from coughing (cough syncope), dry secretions & aspiration wasn't their area of experience and didn't see how he can help me going forward. So the appointment ended.
I then read the letter sent to my GP. They had said that at the appointment I was requesting the use of this humidifation system for the use of oxygen & that I do not require oxygen. Not once at the appointment or before being refereed back did I ever request or mention the need for oxygen.
This has left me feeling very disappointed in my care. The doctor didn't seem to take the time to read past medical notes or take the time to actually listen to my concerns. I am now feeling very unheard and worried for my future health.
"Concerns not being listened to"
About: Perth Royal Infirmary / Respiratory Medicine Perth Royal Infirmary Respiratory Medicine PH1 1NX
Posted by Chronic Lass (as ),
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