I visited a friend recently in an adult mental health ward in Forth Valley Royal.
We went for a coffee. Patients appear to be signed in and out of the ward. Patient safety and risk management I suppose. I was surprised to hear the member of staff calling my friend by something other than the name I know them by. Twice they were informed that this was not my friend's known or preferred name. We were advised that was the name my friend was known by "in there". Their manner was rude and I was firm in my response. My friend told me not to upset myself. They just accepted it.
My friend told me other unacceptable things which have happened. I will not share these but given what I witnessed I would be concerned for others.
I don't share this to upset people who may use these wards or visit friends and relatives but to encourage them not to accept any poor attitude and behaviour. In my opinion in mental health the "how" of healthcare is more important than the "what".
What could be improved? I would like to know that all staff in these wards are reminded of the "how", reminded or introduced to "what matters to me?" as well as the basics of person centred care. I would also like to know how these are being monitored and how staff who consistently fall short are supported to improve or to consider alternative employment.
I hope that should I have to visit anyone in these wards again I will not witness this type of behaviour again.
I don't want to single out any member of staff so please don't ask me to be in touch. I think I have been very clear in my description and request.
"Person centred?"
About: Forth Valley Royal Hospital / Adult mental health (Wards 2,3) Forth Valley Royal Hospital Adult mental health (Wards 2,3) FK5 4WR
Posted by Dancing Queen (as ),
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