"I am an insulin-dependant diabetic ..."

What could be improved

I am an insulin-dependant diabetic (for almost 25 years), so it's a fair bet that I know a bit about diabetes. The same cannot, apparently, be said of the A & E staff at William Harvey hospital, for on Saturday 29th March 2008 I was admitted by ambulance, suffering symptoms of imminent hypoglycemic attack. My blood sugar was low (varying between 2.2 and 4). What was the response? To stick me in a waiting room, filled with badly-behaved kids and worse-behaved parents, for about an hour, waiting for somebody to see me. What absolute tosh! I could have collapsed at any time! Yes, I appreciate that some of the other waiting patients may have had a greater need for urgent medical attention than I, but for goodness sake - a diabetic approaching coma should at least be given a cream doughnut! OK, I'm being flippant. But I really think your A&E staff should know that blood sugar levels can change rapidly (depending on whether they are rising or falling) and that it is critical to establish the level on admission - not an hour later.

I feel guilty having to make these comments, for all previous admissions to WH (four times in the last couple of years, mostly with heart/breathing problems) have shown me what a wonderful hospital it is, and how very caring and professional your staff are. Thank you, and I'm so sorry to be 'moaning'.