Text size

Theme

Language

"The smell of weed was overwhelming"

About: Ophthalmology / Ward 25

(as a service user),

Firstly we were early so decided to have a seat outside.   Not only is there smoking immediately outside the main entrance but we were horrified that the smell of weed was overwhelming.   On looking around we realised that a group of patients were sitting smoking it and quite blatantly telling staff that's what they were smoking. They appeared to be escorted by 2 nurses who didn't seem to mind.    

As an ex nurse I was shocked that the nurses were aware and appeared not concerned.  

On attending the appointment at the eye outpatient ward (25)

We were flippantly met by a health care assistant who came from nowhere and announced they were here then proceeded to do receptionist duties?

When seen by the doctor things went from bad to worse. They spoke to my husband like he didn't matter. They kept saying how busy they were and really his procedure was not important enough to warrant their time. 

Considering we had no explanation of what he was there for as a generic letter had been sent.  Eventually they did his procedure which was simple enough apparently but it wouldn't stop bleeding so they slapped an eye patch on and said it should stop bleeding in a bit ,but we could go because they are busy.

I have never had such a poor experience at a hospital and actually confirmed that after 30 years service it was time for me leave. 

It appears that no one cares anymore.

As for my husband, he was glad he had a nurse at home who could look after his wounds. 

Disgusted does not come close. 

Why in a no smoking zone are people allowed to smoke.  Tobacco or weed? 

Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››

Responses

Response from Audrey Donaldson, Charge Nurse, Ophthalmology Outpatient Department Ninewells, NHS Tayside 10 months ago
Audrey Donaldson
Charge Nurse, Ophthalmology Outpatient Department Ninewells,
NHS Tayside

My role is to manage the day to day running of the Ophthalmology Outpatient Department. Our goal is to ensure our patients and carers have a caring, positive and effective journey through the department. In order to achieve this staff are supported to develop and complete competencies in ophthalmic skills.

Submitted on 22/08/2024 at 09:55
Published on Care Opinion at 10:35


Dear Janemr2

I am sorry that you have had a negative experience when coming to the hospital and within our department. This is absolutely not what we want for our patients.

You have raised several issues which are concerning therefore I wonder if you might consider contacting myself ( details are below ) to discuss these further so that I can try to address them for you. Regarding the smell you refer to, I will contact the Site Manager to report this and ask for their support in addressing this.

Kind regards,

Audrey Donaldson

Acting Senior Charge Nurse

Ophthalmology Department

Ninewells Hospital

Ext. 32993 or Ext. 33550

  • {{helpful}} {{helpful == 1 ? "person thinks" : "people think"}} this response is helpful
Opinions
Next Response j
Previous Response k