"My physical and emotional needs were not considered"

I was admitted to hospital for heart-related symptoms and had a 24-hour heart monitor (tape) fitted at 2pm. At around 11pm the same night, I was suddenly informed that I was being moved to Ray Ward. I was not given a proper explanation for the move, and when I arrived, the bed wasn’t even made — I had to wait in a side room before being shown to it.

Ray Ward, I’ve since learned, is primarily for patients with diabetes, and the ward is full of elderly patients — many of whom have dementia or need constant supervision. I do not have diabetes or dementia. I am here for heart monitoring and was very distressed to be placed in a completely inappropriate environment for my condition.

There were patients screaming out, alarms going off, and noise throughout the night. I became overwhelmed, anxious, and upset. I even started crying from the distress and got a severe headache. This move left me feeling vulnerable, unsafe, and ignored — especially when I’m already in hospital for worrying symptoms.

I understand that bed pressures exist, but I feel my wellbeing was compromised by this decision. I was not treated with the respect or understanding appropriate for someone undergoing heart monitoring and recovering from several days of symptoms.

I would like this to be taken seriously, and for the trust to review how patients are placed when moved late at night — particularly when their physical and emotional needs are not being considered.

Thank you for reading.