"Stay away from Durham University Hospital if..."

My mother’s end of life should have been made more comfortable for her than it was. Fundamental care was not given, had I not been there to bring the situation to there attention that my mother was in her final stages I believe they wouldn’t have known. Ward 5 failed miserably at a time when it was needed most, it seems they don’t have the experience of knowing when someone is at end of life even though it is obvious to a lay person like myself, and what is more concerning is that ward 5 is a geriatric Ward, and these situations will not be un common yet they don’t seem trained in the obvious. I know that the outcome would not have changed but her last few hours should have been less stressful for her, you can’t go back and try again with hindsight but surely staff on this ward are trained to recognise when someone is dying!!!!!!! Yes, I have complained to the trust but I’m just going round in circles with them so I feel it’s my duty to make you aware that if you have a loved one in the care of ward 5, do not presume anything.

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