"I have been both patient and next ..."

What I liked

I have been both patient and next of kin. I have waited six months before commenting so that I could reflect on the experience now that recovery has taken place. I found the hospital social worker to be the only helpful person. The only other postive comment I can make is that the shower facilities were good.

What could be improved

The staff were hostile, unhelpful, didn't knwo what treatment etc the pateint recieved, couldn't answer questions, seemed to lack basic training. Patients are treated with a total lack of dignity. The communication between the doctor and patient/net of kin was non-existent, that is at no point, in six weeks did the doctor let the family or patient know what had happened, though he commented to staff about a brain scan which was overheard. There were sweet papers on the floor in the ward and in the corridor. Nurses tutted when told that a non-mobile patient needed the loo and as a patient I helpedd others to the loo. Beds with mattresses like corrugated cardboard were changed only after a refusal to sleep in it. The experience was very very unsatifactory. I have absolutley no confidence in doctors and staff and absolutely dread ever being in a postion where I have to go there again. This is based on my admission and my mother's for whom I was next of kin.