"Staff attitude"

I attended Crosshouse hospital a&e department recently. I had foot and ankle surgery 11 weeks ago, where bone was taken from my heel and transferred to a metatarsal bone. After experiencing some pain, and after speaking to my surgeon over the phone, I was advised to attend a&e to find out if I was suffering from a stress fracture. My surgeon’s clinic is on Tuesdays, and therefore was unable to see me for another four days.

I was seen by a triage nurse. I explained my symptoms to them. They asked why I didn’t wait the 4 days until my surgeon could see me and suggested I should have as my own surgeon knew my history, whereas the doctors at Crosshouse did not. I explained I was unable to wait until my surgeon could see me, as I was in too much pain. I also explained that my surgeon had advised me to attend a&e if I was struggling with pain. The triage nurse seemed somewhat annoyed at this recommendation.

I attended a&e with my mum, as she was driving me to the hospital. I attended the triage room alone, however, asked the nurse if my mum would be able to come through to the minor injury unit with me. They simply responded no. I asked if they were really busy through in minor injuries, expecting this to be the reason as to why my mother could not attend. They replied no it’s just that at your age you should be more than capable of attending yourself. I was shocked at this response. As I was using two crutches and carrying a tote bag containing my water bottle and medications. I said to the nurse that I really would benefit from my mum being able to come in with me so she could help carry my belongings. The nurse replied I’m sure you’ll manage.

I found this attitude to be completely uncalled for. Attending any medical setting can come with anxieties, and after having had surgery almost three months ago, I should no longer be experiencing pain. Therefore, I was concerned about my foot and leg pain, and would have benefitted from some support. There is no reason to speak to patients like this. As there are posters around the hospital asking patients to respect staff members, I recommend staff members respect patients.