Having suffered with several severe mental health issues for many years, I have found myself in A&E time after time having self harmed or overdosed. In the early hours I found myself in that same situation, having taken paracetamol. I called NHS 24 who dealt with me promptly and efficiently, arranging for an ambulance to arrive within the hour. The paramedics were really lovely and attentive, holding conversation with me for the whole ride to Glasgow Royal. They were so considerate and caring. Once they’d dropped me off into A&E I was terrified as previous experiences haven’t been so good. But everyone was fantastic. Emma (I think that was her name) was a healthcare assistant who helped do an ECG. She was really kind, introduced herself and chatted to me as she did the procedure. The nurses were all fab. When I got round to seeing a doctor, I felt genuinely listened to. He was really patient and understanding, I cannot thank him enough for doing this. He explained clearly what was going to happen with my treatment and got it started really quickly, ensuring I was comfortable the whole time. Even after leaving and coming back, he repeated word for word exactly what I’d told him about my condition, what I’d done and even remembered little family details I’d mentioned. What a star. I cannot praise him enough. The nurses were so kind to me and dealt with my vomiting and sickness really well - I could never do that job! They were constantly reassuring me and providing me with anti sickness relief when I needed it.
Once treatment started I was moved onto the Acute Assessment Area to continue with it and everyone there was again just so lovely and attentive. I know they are not often equipped or fully trained to deal with mental health patients and there is still a lot of stigma, but every single nurse in the AAA unit treated me with the upmost dignity and respect. The consultants soon stopped treatment as it was doing more harm than good, and they too listened to my concerns and respected me. I was soon moved to a waiting area to see some psychiatric nurses which was the only downside unfortunately. I felt rushed in leaving the assessment area and waiting in a stuffy room full of other patients made me feel slightly distressed. I was there for around 3 hours. This was a long time to wait after treatment. I understand GRI is pushed for space and beds but this wasn’t so great. But once I finally saw the CPNs I was very relieved.
I used to be a student nurse before I gave up due to my mental health but every single member of nursing, medical and healthcare assistant staff has inspired me to one day get back to the profession. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
"Care Following an Overdose"
About: Glasgow Royal Infirmary / Accident & Emergency Glasgow Royal Infirmary Accident & Emergency G4 0SF NHS 24 / NHS 24 (111 service) NHS 24 NHS 24 (111 service) Scottish Ambulance Service / Emergency Ambulance Scottish Ambulance Service Emergency Ambulance EH12 9EB
Posted by cbglasgow123 (as ),
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