"Privacy"

Attended eye clinic for a follow up appointment following a visit to the walk in clinic when I experienced problems with vision in my left eye. Before seeing the consultant I was taken into a room were the door was left open and I had an eye test, eye pressure test, then drops were put into my eyes, I was also asked about my general health, this was all carried out in a room with an open door in full view and hearing of other patients waiting to be seen. I said to the male nurse this isn’t very private & was just told they were busy, not sure why this meant the door couldn’t be closed. I was then sent to a waiting area where I was told to wait to see someone else, a female nurse collected me who took me to another room, again the door was left open and I was in full view of other patients, both my eyes were scanned & x rayed, whilst this was being done someone else was brought into the room by the male nurse I originally saw & he gave that person an eye test. I couldn’t believe it and told my nurse I wasn’t happy & would write a review. At least when I saw the consultant it was private.

I do not think this is acceptable surely patients are entitled to privacy & dignity when attending a clinic, regardless of what it’s for. I accept the clinic is very busy but I am sure there are standards and guidelines staff should be following and confidentiality is paramount when treating patients.