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"Lack of empathy in my husband's last days"

About: The Ulster Hospital / Ward 3E (MAU/Unscheduled Care)

(as a relative),

Upon admission to ward 3E for my husband, one staff member was damned right rude with no bedside manner whatsoever. My husband was very ill, and along with other things that were said, they point blank said my husband won't survive.

Ruth from palliative care was amazing and so calming and helpful. Jisha, a nurse, was lovely and helpful with empathy. Some others were lovely too.

How would this staff member like it if they were in my shoes and their loved one was in the last hours of their life, and they were spoken to so rudely and abruptly, without empathy or care for what was said? I feel they need more training on beside manner.

One of the nurses made a comment the day before my husband's passing "that it won't be long now." That was said to three people in that room. What sort of language is that to use in a very stressful and tense situation, when you are clinging on to every last hope?

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Responses

Response from Rhonda Marks, Lead Nurse Unscheduled care, Emergency Medicine - Acute medical unit, South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust 5 months ago
Rhonda Marks
Lead Nurse Unscheduled care, Emergency Medicine - Acute medical unit,
South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust
Submitted on 28/01/2025 at 22:23
Published on Care Opinion on 29/01/2025 at 10:08


Thank you for your comments regarding the care of your husband in 3E and offer my condolences to you and your family. I am sorry to hear of your negative experience as this is certainly not the standard of communication or care that is expected from any staff member within the unit. I can only apologise for this experience and can reassure you I will discuss your comments and feedback at the next team meeting which includes both medical and nursing staff. Any training that maybe required will be discussed and put in place with the appropriate support provided for staff to develop appropriate skills.

A bereavement at any time is difficult and it is important staff act with respect and empathy. It is also important to support and care for family at this difficult time.

Thank you for highlighting your experience and giving the team an opportunity to reflect on how they can improve areas of communication and skills.

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