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"Mixed support"

About: Antrim Area Hospital

(as a parent/guardian),

I attended the Acorn centre recently for an appointment organised by my GP as my newborn required a blood test for jaundice. 

The appointment was on time and the student nurse who booked my son in was friendly and knowledgeable.

Unfortunately my positive experience ended there as the doctor completing the test was sullen, rude and kept forgetting what they had and had not asked me. They made no attempt to make me feel assured or supported which would have been appreciated since I worried further after my baby showed a high heart rate. After the blood test, they had forgotten to get a plaster and suggested it wasn’t needed, despite my son bleeding into his babygro. Thankfully the student nurse was able to go get one! 

The doctor did take the time to call me later that day with the results but I felt their tone indicated this was an inconvenience. 

I hate to leave negative feedback about the service but a good beside manner is essential when working in paeds and lack of care leads to further distressed parents. 

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Responses

Response from Peter Johnston, Lead Nurse - Womens and Childrens Nursing, Northern Health and Social Care Trust 2 days ago
Peter Johnston
Lead Nurse - Womens and Childrens Nursing,
Northern Health and Social Care Trust
Submitted on 01/07/2025 at 16:27
Published on Care Opinion at 16:27


Dear bonanzawh14, My name is Peter Johnston and I am the Lead Nurse for Paediatrics with responsibility for the Acorn Unit in Antrim.

I am sorry to read of your poor experience of communication with staff in the Unit and would like to apologise on behalf of the service for the upset this has caused you. I would ask you to contact me on 07789442758 so I can hear more about your concern and then forward this to the appropriate department.

I am glad to hear that your experience of communication from the student nurse was a positive one and will pass this on in addition to addressing your concerns.

thank you

Peter

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