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Awoken yet again by my curtains being opened

Posted By Motherintraining

"Awoken yet again by my curtains being opened"

About: Glasgow Royal Infirmary / General Surgery (wards 49, 63, 64, 65, 66,& 67)

(as a service user),

I previously submitted a story about privacy and dignity for patients in the hospital. 

I was admitted to hospital again after my laparoscopic cholecystectomy. I am awoken yet again by my curtains being opened while I was asleep. This time in the ERAS ward. Please can this point be properly covered with staff.

7am and as soon as I open my eyes, my curtains are completely opened, in full view of the door. It's a mixed ward, with male patients, and only a single hospital gown on and the completely see through hospital net pants. Its very violating to wake up to this.

I don't understand why staff are still opening the curtains just because its morning. They need to ask first and if I am still asleep, for consent. Maybe I am the only one who has complained, but I assure you nobody appreciates it.

I have over heard plenty of older people who just say that you lose all your dignity in hospital, that that's just the way it is... it shouldn't be.

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Responses

Response from Fiona Smyth, Lead Nurse, General Surgery - North Sector, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde 3 weeks ago
Fiona Smyth
Lead Nurse, General Surgery - North Sector,
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Submitted on 24/09/2025 at 00:58
Published on Care Opinion at 07:25

Dear Motherintraining

Thank you for raising this important issue. It is concerning to hear about the patient's experience in the ERAS ward. Privacy and dignity are vital, and it is distressing that staff opened the curtains without consent,and without checking you were appropriately covered.

I will pass your comments on to the Senior Charge Nurse to remind all staff to seek patient consent before opening curtains. Maintaining patient trust and comfort is essential. It is troubling that older patients feel resigned to losing their dignity. We must ensure all patients feel respected.

Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback.

Fiona Smyth

Lead Nurse General surgery North.

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