"Emergency Care for New Baby"

We needed to take our newborn to Antrim A&E in march

Firstly we dealt with a triage nurse in the Dalriada Out of Hours Service who was efficient yet kind and understanding.

 We then headed to Antrim A&E where the triage nurse was also understanding and gentle with our baby. Although we still had quite a wait to see a doctor, we did not seem to be waiting as long as others and there was a sense that staff were trying their best. A support staff member offered tea and biscuits which was much appreciated. She was very friendly and also offered to support us in making bottles if required which was becoming a worry for us. 

 Over the course of the night we met with 4 different doctors. I wish I could remember their names and hope that they can be identified as those working the night shift in the last few days of march. Of the three A&E doctors we met, one was named Ahmed and another was possibly named Stephen. All three were so helpful and reassuring. They were gentle with out baby and also with us as parents. We felt a lot of anxiety as our baby was badly hurt. We also felt embarrassment and guilt over the accident but all three doctors had a non-judgemental and empathetic attitude. Compared to the consultants I met during my pregnancy, they were so kind and we felt they really wanted to help. In particular, Ahmed got me a glass of water when I was upset and this small gesture meant a lot.

We also received care from a Paediatrician named Aodhan. Again we were so grateful for his time, expertise and attitude. He had a well balanced sense of humour while being professional and empathetic to our situation and I feel very lucky that he was working on the night of our admission. 

Finally, I want to express thanks to the male and female nurse who were assisting the A&E doctors and those who welcomed us to the Childrens Ward. Once again their interest in our baby, compassion towards us as parents and little touches like offering a piece of toast and emergency milk for baby did not go unnoticed and helped to make a very stressful time a little more bearable.