I am very disappointed with my recent experience of Ward 6. There are exceptions to what I am going to say but, in the main, the staff were abrupt and dismissive. There was a distinct lack of empathy for an old lady nearing end of life and the general opinion seemed to be that she did not warrant any further treatment - she was virtually written off. I even had a discussion with a consultant where they actually had the gall to mention use of resources!
I know that a frail old lady of 96 is definitely nearing end of life but that does not excuse the lack of empathy and the overriding implication that by insisting on continuing treatment that I was somehow draining NHS resources.
I would also question the level of hygiene in a ward where there was acute infection. The only time I saw the cleansing sprays used at the end of the beds was by a student paramedic. Nurses and doctors moved from one patient to another, all of whom had varying infections, without ever spraying or washing their hands.
My mother was discharged, prematurely in my opinion, but it was with great relief that she actually got out of this ward. Such a contrast to her previous stay in ward 5 where all staff were vigilant, friendly and pleasant.
A truly horrendous experience.
"Ward 6"
About: University Hospital Of North Durham University Hospital Of North Durham Durham DH1 5TW
Posted via nhs.uk
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