Care Opinion

Text size

Theme

Language

Videos in BSL or ISL
Help with language translation
Help with reading or listening

Awkward and really uncomfortable

Posted By Shorty Morty

"Awkward and really uncomfortable"

About: Forth Valley Royal Hospital / Xrays & Scans

(as a service user),

I was referred for a CT scan and was given an appointment at Forth Valley Hospital. This is outwith my area so very unfamiliar with the hospital. On arrival I was directed to the waiting area. For my appointment I was told i would be seen and given my scan in the mobile scanner. I was escorted out by a lady through the corridor out into a car park area and up into the scanner. The lady left me and I was seen by two men. One of the men went through the checklist and told me as my bra had a wire in it I had to remove it. Thankfully I was able to do so and leave my top on. I asked about my trousers as they had a button and zip which were metal and I was told I could pull them down when on the table. He did put a piece of paper over me and I was able to do that. Once scan was complete he came in to take the dye from my cannula and the paper fell off when he reached over leaving me in my underwear with my trousers at my waist.  I know this doesn’t sound too bad but I completely felt vulnerable and awkward and really uncomfortable. In hindsight I wish I was able to speak up and ask for a chaperone as the mobile unit wasn’t within the hospital building with no one surrounding us. 

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

Responses

Response from Jennifer Gilchrist, Radiology Department Manager, Radiology, NHS Forth Valley 4 months ago
Jennifer Gilchrist
Radiology Department Manager, Radiology,
NHS Forth Valley

Submitted on 10/02/2025 at 09:40
Published on Care Opinion at 09:40

Dear Shorty Morty,

While I am pleased you were able to attend NHS Forth Valley for your CT scan in a quicker timeframe - I am very sorry that your experience was awkward, leaving you feeling uncomfortable. Scanning while you are in your own clothes is usually the most dignified method when you have had to walk out to the CT Van; I fully accept this was not the case for you, and I am very sorry.

I will ensure that the team who are based in the Hospital building are clear to explain the procedure, and ensure a changing cubicle is available for patients who are going to the van to remove undergarments in privacy. I hope this has been an oversight on this occasion from the in-house team, and please be assured I will raise this today with the team.

I understand that you felt uncomfortable with the two male Radiographers on the CT Van when your modesty-cover came off, I would like to reassure you that the whole team who run the CT Van are very professional Radiographers. Unfortunately I am unable to dictate the mix of staff daily on the van, but I will of course ask that they are mindful of patients modesty-covers, and ensure they remain professional and respectful to all our patients when the need to utilise these arises.

Please accept my apologies for your experience, and I hope you feel reassured I will address the points you have raised today - with both the teams running the CT Van.

Best Wishes,

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