"All things, but some need more ..."

What could be improved

All things, but some need more urgent attention than others. Shortage of staff is probably the root of many issues. Patients left too long and in pain on bedpans because staff are attending to other patients, no encouragement or help given to those unable to take fluids for hours on end, bedbound patients unable to call for assistance not checked regularly, meals left going cold on tables as no staff member available to assist. The observation skills of nursing staff, perhaps because of the lack of time, is poor and crucial information is not passed to the doctors. The doctors do not seem to speak with one another and do not read patient's notes adequately. Relatives and carers visiting patients ask questions or make observations to nursing staff who often do not get back to them or suggest they make appointments with the doctors. Very difficult for people who work. Nursing notes not complete or inaccurate on occasions, potentially impacting on patient's care on discharge. Patients/relatives/carers need to be fully involved in patient treatment. Doctors need to be checked on a regular basis for competency.

Anything else?

I cannot help but wonder how Basingstoke Hospital received a commendation from the Health Commission. There needs to be a consistent method of logging observations and complaints - at the moment people (and the majority do not complain because they don't want to cause a fuss, be seen as a troublemaker or just don't see the point) do this verbally or directly to the ward. I think there needs to be a process where patients/visitors can highlight non-urgent issues whilst on the ward, in writing, and which they are guaranteed feedback on. These need to be made available to the Healthcare Commission. Perhaps in this way you will get a true picture of the problems at Basingstoke hospital.

I note that there are very few negative comments. I do hope the moderator is not being selective on publication! This is constructive feedback.