"Disappointed with my experience."

I was referred to the Breast Unit for investigation which obviously caused huge worry and anxiety. I wanted my husband with me every step. My experience was very disappointing and not what I expected. Firstly I went into my appointment 30 minutes late which raised my already high anxiety. During initial examination the nurse used a pen and draw on my breast without consent. My husband wasn't allowed to accompany me for my mammogram (despite the website stating the radiation was very low) and stay behind the screen. When I went for my ultrasound the nurse stayed while I undressed, leaving me with no privacy, when the doctor came in and was told I was still undressing they said "it's ok I'll mess with my papers" both far from ok! What about recognising I wanted privacy? Protecting my dignity? The nurse also said they were there to assist the doctor....and did nothing but stand and watch and didn't need to be there; I didn't want or need a an audience! I' m aware that I am one of many patients and the staff do this all day everyday. They should review their procedures and put patients first and consider how we feel. We're worried and anxious and we don't want to cause a fuss or we get caught up in our thoughts when we see some of the kit. My experience has left me upset and angry, with myself, that I didn't make my thoughts and feelings known then but I had other things on my mind. Not one person asked how I was feeling......I was terrified what might be found! Please, please, please go back to basics and consider the patient might be too scared to say they do or don't want something to happen a certain way. Remember we might be scared and want our partners with us.

Ask yourselves does this extra staff member need to be here? Remember this might be our first ever visit and we are scared. I'm thankful that i had the all clear but very disappointed and upset by some of my experience at a time I felt frightened and vulnerable.