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"Standout midwife care after being sent home incorrectly"

About: Maternity care / Early Pregnancy Assessment Service (EPAS) Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow / Maternity care

(as a service user),

Following a miscarriage follow-up appointment, I was asked to return to ward 49 for a suspected ectopic pregnancy due to my hcg levels continuing to increase despite the miscarriage completing. I was expecting a laparoscopy however was sent home by the consultant in ward 49, apparently as I looked fine and was walking around. I was told to attend EPAS the next day for a further blood test. 

The following day I had the same left-sided pain and dizziness I had experienced during my original miscarriage and went immediately to EPAS. A very kind midwife sonographer scanned me and found fluid. She validated my pain and experience and took me seriously. She contacted ward 49 and had me re-admitted. Thanks to her help I finally had the surgery I was expecting and they found an ectopic pregnancy in my fallopian tube. I wish I had noted her name as she represents the very best of nursing, acting on instinct and considering the entire picture of patients' experience. I truly believe she saved my life and cannot thank her enough. 

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Responses

Response from Nikki Harvey, Lead nurse -Gynaecology, Gynaecology, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde 2 days ago
Nikki Harvey
Lead nurse -Gynaecology, Gynaecology,
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
Submitted on 19/05/2025 at 14:56
Published on Care Opinion at 14:56


picture of Nikki Harvey

Dear fluffyslippers29,

Firstly, I am so sorry for your loss. If you feel you need extra support the following is a good website:

www.ectopic.org.uk

Thank you so much for sharing your experience — I’m truly sorry you had to go through such a distressing and painful journey.

What you’ve described is incredibly difficult: not only the heartbreak of losing your pregnancy, but also the uncertainty, fear, and physical pain that followed. To feel you had your symptoms initially dismissed, especially at such a vulnerable time, must have been deeply upsetting and frustrating.

It’s heartening to know that you eventually encountered someone who truly listened — the midwife sonographer who validated your pain, acted quickly, and treated you with compassion and urgency. Her care reflects the person centred care we aim to achieve.

On behalf of the Ward 49 team thank you for your feedback which we will reflect on.

If you wish me to explore this further please contact me on:

Nikki.Harvey@nhs.scot

Kind regards,

Nikki

Nikki Harvey Lead Nurse

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