"Security & communication"

Ward 54

Security - Able to walk into  my sister's room without going past or checking in at  nurses station. Station in middle of corridor and room at entrance to ward. 

Communication . Asked  on a couple of occasions  for alarm pad as my sister is high falls risk, This is on her record and one had been supplied during previous stays in Qu E main building and New Victoria. Told this is the NHS - they have to be be ordered - she's not a priority. Langlands not a priority. Astonished the geriatric  unit not a priority, Alarm supplied only after she fell out of bed at 3a.m. Not informed about fall until 12 noon and staff unable to say how long she had been lying on floor. Told us not long but when I enquired  further told that checks were every 2 hours at least.

My sister had ENT appointment during stay.  I supplied paper work and phoned on day of appointment and was told porter was  booked  for 1.45 for 2 pm appointment. I arranged to meet her at ENT dept to save staff member accompanying her. She was not brought across until almost 4p,m. after a number of calls to ward. I even phoned porters and was told that while a booking had been made no time was  specified. Fortunately consultant agreed to see her.

On returning from appointment her belongings had been moved from single  room to  ward . There had been no prior discussion  nor reason given. 

Physio phoned me to ask if it was acceptable to  refer sister to community physio on discharge . Agreed but still awaiting contact.

Day of discharge phoned to speak to consultant, At lunch so asked for consultant to phone back when suitable, Still waiting. Difference of night and day in standards of care and communication.