"Problems at Stafford, and poor scanner at Cannock"

Went to A/E on 20th Dec 2008. The nurse took my blood pressure but could not take my bloods as she could not find a tourniquet. She went off to find one. I was in a lot of pain and feeling nauseous and was left on a trolley alone for 1hr, unable to call for assistance as the buzzer was out of reach on the wall. I did not see her again. There was no bedding on the couch; a folded blanket took the place of a pillow. It was the receptionist who eventually came asked me if I wanted my partner and friend to come and stay with me.

Whilst in the waiting room, Father Christmas and a member of the management team was asking the patients and family members if they would like their photograph taken with him and to sign a form. Whilst I realise that it was the season of good will, relatives were sitting there upset and concerned for their loved one. My friend who is a retired nurse felt this was inappropriate. Some relatives, it seemed, had traveled quite a distance and could not have drink as the vending machine was out of order. It's the little things that matter also.

In February 2009, I went to Cannock for an MRI scan. The microphone on the scanner was not working correctly and the cool air that should have been pumped around in the scanner was not present, making it very hot and stressful, the staff were aware of the problems with the microphone.

The next day I complained to PALS, but there attitude was and is, the Trust does not own the scanner so there is nothing that they can do. Although I spoke to someone in the MRI department after they had contacted me, I was led to believe that this was something that could not be repaired until a later date and I assume they are still using this scanner.

The trust refer their patients to this company and should make sure that the machinery is in full working order. The trust has a duty of care to their patients.