"My wife’s experience in A&E"

My wife fell at home and shortness of breath and pain prompted us to attend the Altnagelvin ED, being advised that an X-ray would most likely be required.

We presented at 16:30 on the Monday and she was discharged at 18:00 on the Wednesday 18/3. During this time, no bed being available we slept on chairs.

This is unacceptable, however, I know that that you are aware of this and the arguments and comments to highlight the situation are well rehearsed.

This comment is not intended to add to that debate, rather I want to highlight the exemplary attention my wife received while under the care of your staff whom I observed work in a very challenging environment.

The skill set of everyone I observed went considerably beyond both their medical training and clinical expertise in dealing with patients who were distressed, in pain and occasionally fractious. Two staff who were particularly caring to my wife were Marie on night shift and Denise during the day. I appreciated their gentle caring manner.

My wife’s treatment plan was thorough and consultation was arranged to the neurologist and physiotherapist before she was discharged. We met the same degree of courteous and professional help in both these departments as well.

While the circumstances of the department are not ideal, a 48 hour stay without a bed would be unacceptable in any situation, I have to commend and thank your staff for providing my wife wife an extremely professional, thorough and gentle care plan despite the very challenging circumstances that they are facing every shift.