My sister went into A&E experiencing alcohol withdrawals. She had experienced a seizure and bit down hard on her tongue leading to bruising. She was experiencing hallucinations and behaving unlike herself. We appreciate all the hard work and care provided by the staff in A&E however are shocked by the lack of appropriate care available to those in need of a bed in the hospital wards.
The result for my sister has been a loss of dignity, an inability to shower/ wash for days, her behaviour has been observed by patients and staff who should not have seen it. She has had police called to check on her regarding her safety and the safety of others. She has been in a cubicle with very little privacy and no windows or comfort. It just seems like the A&E are being bombarded with patients they cannot handle- it’s unfair on staff and patients alike. I know this a wider systemic problem but stories like this need to be shared for people to be aware of.
I would hate to be in my sisters position- she has an illness and underneath all of her challenging behaviour is a real person, a loving caring, funny, beautiful woman, the care provided whilst being the best currently available does not provide any dignity to her. I hope our services are given funding soon and are hospitals can make changes. How long can this go on???
"The care currently available does not provide dignity"
About: Altnagelvin Area Hospital / Emergency department Altnagelvin Area Hospital Emergency department Londonderry BT47 6SB
Posted by Bluegiraff (as ),
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