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"Ward doors xmas decorations"

About: University Hospital Wishaw / Cardiology (Ward 4) University Hospital Wishaw / Emergency Department

(as a friend),

Dear University Hospital Wishaw,

I am writing to express my concern and disappointment regarding the decorations I encountered during a recent visit to your hospital. My friend was critically unwell and was admitted to the cardiology care unit after several hours in the ER. As we were entering the ward, we were met with a display of balloons that seemed more fitting for a car sales shop than a hospital. 

I noticed similar balloon decorations on the doors of other wards.

While I understand that it is the festive season, I believe that such decorations are inappropriate in a hospital setting, particularly in areas where patients and their families are dealing with serious health issues. It is important to remember that for some, this period may be a time of grief and distress, and such displays could potentially exacerbate their emotional turmoil.

I am sure that the NHS has standards for patient care that include respect, attitude, behaviour, communication, privacy, and dignity. I feel that the placement of these decorations in the main corridor of the hospital does not align with these standards. It is crucial to maintain a professional and considerate environment that respects the emotional state of all patients and their families.

Moreover, in my opinion such decorations should not be used in inpatient areas where clinical care is being delivered. I believe that the main corridor leading to a care unit falls under this category, as it is a space that patients and their families must pass through.

I would like to suggest that such decorations be confined to staff rooms or other non-clinical areas where they will not impact patients and their families. This would allow staff to enjoy the festive season without potentially causing distress to others.

I hope that my feedback will be taken into consideration and that appropriate measures will be taken to ensure that the hospital environment remains respectful and considerate of all patients and their families.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

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Responses

Response from David Watson, Chief of Nursing, UHW, University Hospital Wishaw, NHS Lanarkshire 4 months ago
We have made a change
David Watson
Chief of Nursing, UHW,
University Hospital Wishaw, NHS Lanarkshire

Chief of Nursing

Submitted on 22/12/2023 at 15:32
Published on Care Opinion at 15:33


picture of David Watson

Dear Shazlo, thank you for taking the time to provide us with some feedback. I am sorry that the festive decorations have caused you distress, that was not the intention and we apologise for any distress this has caused you.We have taken your feedback onboard and the decorations have been scaled back.We will consider this in future in a hope to balance our approach as many patients / families and relatives have taken great comfort from the decorations, however your point of the wider public we serve is well made.

Again, apologies for any upset and we wish your friend a speedy recovery and wish you all best wishes for the coming festivities.

Yours Sincerely

Dr David Watson

Chief of Nursing Services

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