After visiting my GP they phoned the surgeon on call to discuss my symptoms as they were in line with appendicitis. I arrived at A & E about half an hour later, explained why I was there and the receptionists were rude and abrupt when handling my case.
After I had been reviewed by the A & E nurse I was then sent up to Ward 4 another hour later. From then on I felt that communication was significantly lacking. I was not informed of any protocols and had to ask questions rather than being given information about my care pathway.
I felt that someone could have informed me that nothing would be done until I had to have my bloods taken and the results returned before next steps could be determined. I also felt that someone should have informed me that I would be nil by mouth, and why until these results were returned.
The nurses and Drs were always pleasant enough but communication could have, and should have been much better. I appreciate every one is busy and doing their jobs, but these snippets of information would have taken 2 minutes. Working in the NHS, I have some knowledge however, I attended hospital alone. If I did not have some background - the lack of information could have made me really anxious and worried. I had been admitted without any real or concrete information about what to expect.
Communication is key to making patients feel as relaxed as possible in what can be a daunting and horrible situation.
"A & E and ward admittance"
About: University Hospital Hairmyres / General Surgery (Ward 5) University Hospital Hairmyres General Surgery (Ward 5) G75 8RG
Posted by Lass89 (as ),
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