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"unpleasant experience "

About: West Middlesex University Hospital

I visited the emergency due to testicular and groin pain. The nurse who took my blood pressure asked me questions like, “How long have you had this pain?” and, “Why did you come to the emergency? You should have gone to your gp, as the emergency service is for cases like broken bones or heart issues.”

I explained that I had already seen my gp two weeks ago, was prescribed antibiotics, and that the pain had worsened since last night. I was particularly concerned, knowing that I have a hernia and fearing a possible complication. I reassured her that I wouldn’t have come if I didn’t feel it was necessary.

Her comments made me feel as though my presence was unwelcome, and as if I was wasting their time. She recorded my blood pressure, which was around 155/98. I waited in the waiting area, but I felt uncomfortable and feared that other staff might also judge me for seeking help, so I ultimately decided to leave, even though I began experiencing a headache.

I am still in pain but feel reluctant to return to the emergency department at this hospital.

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Responses

Response from Camelia King-Martey, Patient Experience Coordinator, Patient Experience, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust 9 months ago
Camelia King-Martey
Patient Experience Coordinator, Patient Experience,
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Submitted on 31/10/2024 at 16:39
Published on Care Opinion at 16:39


Dear writer,

Thank you for sharing your feedback.

We are sorry you had such an uncomfortable experience at the hospital. It's understandable that you'd be concerned, especially given the fact you had already seen a GP and the pain was worsening.

Emergency departments are there to provide care when you feel your health needs are urgent, and you shouldn’t feel judged for seeking help. It might be worth reaching out to the PALS team to share your experience, if you would like to raise your experience as a concern or complaint - chelwest.wmpals@nhs.net.

In the meantime, if the pain continues or worsens, consider seeking medical attention again—your health and peace of mind are important.

Best wishes,

The Patient Experience Team

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