"Waiting time at Eastbourne accident and emergency"

I visited the accident and emergency department after I had stood on a rusty nail, at night. It was a painful, but not serious injury and needed antibiotics. I went to Eastbourne DGH.

Firstly, I was pleased that they have changed the parking arrangements, so you can pay for the time you stay. When I went into the waiting room, it was full. There were babies and young children as well as the inevitable drunks. I waited and waited and nothing happened. No one was called. The children and babies were not separated and seen. Nothing. After 40 minutes, I left.

It was not a question of lack of staff, there were two groups of nurses and doctors, chatting in the treatment area. It was a problem of them not being directed.

At Brighton, they have a nurse who talks to everyone, and prioritises. Some she could reassure and send home, and some could be seen urgently. This is what is needed at Eastbourne.