"Poor care in A & E"

 I recently had  retinal detachment surgery in ward 25 Ninewells Hospital. The nurses, HCAs, theatre staff and doctors were all amazing. Every single person was kind, compassionate and truly listened to me. 

Unfortunately the Saturday before my surgery I had a completely different experience in A&E. I had been advised by NHS 24 (who, were also so kind and person centred) to attend A&E straight away due to symptoms in my eye.  I was told not to drive. I attended and all reception and nursing staff were very efficient and kind.

After waiting around 3 1/2 hours I was called by a consultant to be seen. They called my name, never acknowledged me at all and turned walking away at speed for me to follow them. I lost them, so they had to walk back for me (with no apology).  They then had a quick look in my eye.  They didn’t really listen to what I was saying. Was very dismissive. Told me they had these symptoms too. There was nothing they could see that caused concern. Then said they weren't an eye specialist and gave me an appt to come back at 9 am the next morning. In total they  spent 4 minutes with me.

By this time it was already after midnight. My lift had gone home. Reception refused to call me a taxi, but thankfully the security guard outside gave me some taxi numbers. I eventually got home at 2 am and was expected to be back up at 9 (still not allowed to drive). 

I believe the Consultant was trying to review patients too quickly. They were rushed and busy. A nurse was speaking to them about an ill patient in resus (whose BP was dropping). I absolutely appreciate they were in the middle of a busy shift. I can even understand the clinical misjudgment given they aren't an eye expert.

However, what is unforgivable is how rude and ignorant the behaviour was. I am sure they would expect better from their more junior colleagues.  

Thankfully an optician saw me later the next day where I was examined appropriately and retinal detachment was diagnosed.  I was informed this was an opthalmic emergency and should have been easily diagnosed the previous night. My symptoms were text book. 

What saddens me is that despite the amazing treatment from all other medical professionals it is this one person's attitude that has let down NHS Tayside.