What I liked
My dad was admitted onto ward 17 in May 2012 for 3 weeks and then again in July for 4 weeks, until the ward temporarily closed. He had advanced prostate cancer, but was admitted with anaemia and vomiting blood.
The care on both occasions was wonderful; my dad was treated with respect and dignity by all but one staff nurse. After his first stay, he returned home but unfortunately the OT had not ordered an air mattress and also the community physiotherapists did not make contact.
His admittance in July followed a 999 call ,17 hour wait in A&E/CDU and 2 days on the MAU. He was so pleased to be going back to 17 as he knew he would be well looked after, and he had every faith they would be able to improve his condition once again, though this time it was a severe chest infection and immobility. He was greeted like long lost family by many of the staff. Nothing was too much trouble. Staff often popped in for a chat as they were passing his room and many even called to say hello or goodbye at the start or end of their shift.
The only complaint he had was about one particular staff nurse. She was rude to him and us on several occasions, and although she knew he had a weak spine due to the cancer, and was in tremendous pain, she handled him roughly and became cross and impatient with him when he moaned out in pain and eventually refused to be moved by her.
However, dad was visibly upset when he had to be moved, and so were some of the HCAs! They were a wonderful, caring team. Unfortunately, dad deteriorated quite quickly after being moved, and then being discharged and sadly passed away early September.
We would like to say a huge thank you to the ward 17 staff for the care and compassion they showed Dad during his final months.
What could be improved
People/communication skills of one staff nurse. She didn't seem to fully understand Dad's situation; she was functional but not at all compassionate.
"Overall a very positive experience, heartfelt..."
About: Doncaster Royal Infirmary Doncaster Royal Infirmary Doncaster DN2 5LT
Posted via nhs.uk
Do you have a similar story to tell?
Tell your story & make a difference ››
Responses
See more responses from Doncaster Royal Infirmary