"Failure to properly assess and diagnose my child"

Over the past few months/ years. I have had to take my son to A&E because he has been in distress/pain.

Within last month:

First attendance A&E - they done observations and we were told they were fine and he had inflammation in his costal cartilage/ viral no other tests. No viral symptoms. Doctors appointment they took bloods - iron levels extremely low, medication given and referred him back to gastroenterologist.

Second A&E attendance - Senior team member, observations fine and told that there was nothing wrong with my son, he is okay and I don’t need to take him to A&E and that maybe something was up with school, no further tests.

Third A&E attendance - Senior team member, very dismissive, told me A&E  is for acutely unwell patients, urine test clear. Said they would only be concerned if he had infection or appendicitis. Hinted that it was psychological and nothing they could do for him.

Fast forward to the next appointment with gastro consultant, possible endoscope. Felt my sons stomach and instantly said something wasn't right. Impacted. Couldn’t do the endoscopy until relieved, will at a later date. Bloods taken and X-ray. Confirmed megacolon! Medication to try empty bowel and appt in 2 weeks to assess.

My son is diagnosed with Autism and yes psychological may play an important role in his everyday life but I am disgusted at the treatment given.

I hope you understand that he doesn’t want to attend your department again because you never listen or do anything. Please in future think twice before you label a child and please in future do your job accordingly.

First attendance - if bloods and X-ray were taken my child would not have been left like this! I’m appalled at the level of care given considering I work for the NHS. Thank god for the gastroenterologist!