"Critical Care E8"

From the moment my husband was admitted to this ward it has been nothing but chasing everything.

Apart from one or two members of staff the whole experience in dealing with them has been very distant - completely at odds with those in the Acute Medicine Assessment Unit previously.

Offers of a cup of tea at the appropriate times have been missed, his meals have been appalling, even to having the very same lunch and dinner, which were not palatable, being given to him on the same day.

His dignity has been ignored as per the following message received tonight, at 19.30 pm, "No salad cream, no potato salad, very bland, looking for new hotel! Sheets not done yet either."

This from a person recovering from pneumonia, who hadn't eaten for quite some days and was looking forward to an egg salad. The meal trolley is situated outside his room every time, with clattering and constant shattering from those dealing with it.

He had requested his sheet be changed earlier in the morning, from during the night before, before I arrived at 10.00 am.

We had both raised it again repeatedly during the day.

A different doctor everyday so no continuity of discussion or even a sensible response when questioned.

There does seem a real lack of communication between the doctors and nurses regarding the notes and information.

My husband continually has to repeat the same information to each different member of staff - it should not have to be so.

IT IS JUST NOT PROFESSIONAL or even inspires confidence.

We understand everyone is rushed off their feet but surely the patient's health and dignity come first?