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"Lack of communication and care causing a..."

About: University College Hospital

I was given a sweep without being notified beforehand or prepared verbally which was a complete shock to the system. A student midwife was unable to break my waters twice, even though I specifically requested no student midwife in my birthing plan. The birthing plan was not referred to at all. They failed to identify that my baby was back to back, or even convey that to me at any point until moments before my emergency c-section which I find absolutely unbelievable. The epidural was not working and since there was only one anesthetist in the labour ward who was in theatre at the time, I had to wait an hour before being seen to, whilst laying in excruciating contractions. The attitude of some of the doctors was quite carefree with regards to having a c-section instead of showing any care to the mental health of a first time mother not prepared for an emergency c-section. Aftercare at the ward was appalling. My painkillers were not given to me at the right time so since it had worn off, I would have to hobble to ask where my dose was. Overall, a combination of a complete lack of communication and care. There were one or two very kind midwives in the aftercare but also one who was extremely rude to my husband who when asked if I could have more painkillers, was rudely snapped at. I understand the NHS is short staffed however mothers to be appreciate being kept in the loop so that their expectations can be managed just like in any procedure in life.

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Responses

Response from University College Hospital 7 years ago
University College Hospital
Submitted on 21/09/2016 at 14:54
Published on nhs.uk on 22/09/2016 at 02:30


Thank you for taking the time to feed back to us. We are very sorry to hear about your recent experience of Maternity Service at UCLH. We would be grateful if you could contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) via pals@uclh.nhs.uk or by calling 020 3447 3042 so that we can look into this.

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