"Life-changing."

What I liked

The sensitivity and skill of your A&E nurses, who gave us a great deal of support at a difficult time.

What could be improved

My Uncle was admitted to RSH with respiratory issues back in September. He had been treated with broad spectrum antibiotics by his GP, but his condition was not improving. RSH spent 4 weeks continuing along this line of treatment, despite it being clear antibiotics were not improving his condition. His chest x-ray was taken as showing indication of infection. During this time, he was discharged a number of times, with his GP demanding his re-admittance due to his ongoing poor health, and a lack of a satisfactory diagnosis.

Finally, I believe someone ordered a CT scan. It may have been due to him beginning to cough up blood, but I can not be sure. It turned out the 'infection' was actually a number of tumours, with a much larger mass in his chest cavity.

By this point, with weeks undiagnosed and untreated, the cancer was deemed inoperable and terminal. He was sent home, having never seen an oncologist. He was invited back to discuss his condition with one of the gentleman who had misdiagnosed him.

Sadly, he passed away days before the appointment, when he was brought in on a 999 due to renal failure.

With 20/20 hindsight, I suspect the 5 weeks could have been better spent giving my Uncle radiotherapy and chemotherapy, assuming the successful diagnosis of huge abnormal growths in his chest.

The adverts showing you should have an x-ray if you have a cough more than 3 weeks seem all the more poignant when I consider how my Uncle was treated. I suspect the 3 weeks is mentioned due to speed being a vital element in the successful treatment of these conditions.

His untimely passing at the age of 61, despite 5 weeks of hospital 'care' to diagnose his illness, would seem to back the idea that speed of action is rather important.

And that inaction can have significant consequences.

Anything else?

He wasn't too keen on the food during his stay.