"Once communication was underway there..."

What I liked

Once communication was underway there was detailed information about my grandads condition, his treatment, results of tests and expected outcome of such, plus a Drs name and phone number to contact for any further information, it was a shame that this hadn't been forthcoming sooner.

What could be improved

Communication between staff, as certain medication should have been given in a certain way, this didnt happen until the doctor concerned returned from holiday, therefore delaying the effectiveness of my Grandads treatment and causing him to remain in hospital longer. The results of tests should have been communicated sooner, a point of contact should have been made available for family enquiries, and personal hygiene should have been addressed from day one and not just after incidents that cant be ignored. Responding to the call button should have been immediate as my Grandad fell twice trying to get to the toilet because no-one responded to his call, it was left to other patients to get the attention of staff when he was in distress or had fallen.

Anything else?

There was an overall atmosphere of "not my responsibility", trying to find a nurse who was responsible for my Grandad was difficult, I had to ask at the desk 3 times and then when the nurse did turn up they seemed to begrudge being asked to change dirty sheets, only by being this persistent did he receive his first shower in 3 weeks!

I'm in a position to compare my Grandads hospital care to what I have received myself 3 times in the last 8 years but at a Sheffield hospital and the experiences are worlds apart, I'm appalled at the lack of dignified care and personal interest towards a frail elderly gentleman, who isnt trying to cause a fuss at all but just wants to be well enough to return home.