"I felt vulnerable"

I attended the QMC A&E department on Wednesday 29 December at around 11am. with an acute eyelid infection (Cellulitis of the eye), following advice from my doctor. Upon arrival, the receptionist told me to make my way to the Eye, Ears, Nose and Throat unit. It was obvious that I couldn't see very well, but I apologised for my mistake and negotiated the building works, traffic and cold weather in order to seek medical help.

I was greeted politely by the receptionist who listened to my explanation of what was wrong.

I was asked to take a seat, which I did. I patiently waited to be seen. After approximately 20 minutes I was greeted by an ophthalmologist.

They promptly informed that my issue was to do with my skin and not my sight - so could I please make my way back to the A&E unit.

I went back, slightly peeved at the situation. I saw a different receptionist who asked me questions this time. They also looked at the notes that had just been recorded by the Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat unit.

This time I was let through to the triage to be assessed.

Despite the initial mistake at reception,

I was genuinely impressed with the speed, kindness, and efficiency of all the medical staff who dealt with me in triage.

A speedy decision was made to admit me into the hospital for an overnight stay and IV antibiotics.

A porter came to fetch me. They were very kind and upbeat. The ward staff introduced themselves and I was settled in my cubicle.

The atmosphere was happy, caring and reassuring.

The shifts changed later that evening at about 7 pm I think. That is when I started to notice a complete change of mood/atmosphere. The staff who took over did not make themselves known. They appeared sullen and unapproachable.

The staff stood around chatting with each other, discussing what they were going to order to eat.Pizza and Indian were mentioned.

I waited for my medication patiently, (it was due around 8:30 pm). It got to about 9:30 pm so I politely asked a passing nurse if I could have my medication, they heard me clearly but ignored me.

When it got to around 10:15 pm the ward lights were switched off.

The staff pulled their chairs together and sat in a huddle, still chatting away. I was flabbergasted. So I pressed my buzzer.

Someone came over. They asked me "what do you want" it was not in a friendly manner,

I am not usually an assertive person, but I felt the need to speak out.

To cut a long story short I felt vulnerable. I am not elderly,

I am 52. But there were elderly patients on ward B3 with me. (I know at least one other patient who had asked for her medication and was ignored just like me). I was alarmed at how this incident made me feel.

I know the hospital routine as I have stayed in the hospital before. I text my daughter to let her know that I felt vulnerable. This incident has made me very wary.