A quick update...

[Poppin]

I recently wrote complaining about the lack of care my mum has been receiving since diagnosis 18 months ago, ie not seen consultant unless hospitalised, her outpatient appointment has been cancelled at least 4 times so no oxygen assessment, no support at home etc.

I have now managed to get a referral to community matron, although this takes about 10 working days. I rang her consultants secretary last week and her attitude was appalling, she stated she would ring me back, well guess what...I am still bloody waiting.

My mum was admitted to hospital on Thursday night, ( third time since mid December), her oxygen levels were 77% when the paramedic arrived, although a little bit of oxygen they administered brought it up to 88.

I complained to the nurse on the ward about all the above and have managed to get to an appointment to speak to one of her doctors tomorrow. Apart from finding out from them where she is at with her copd, (I think she is at end stage), and explaining the lack of care, would anybody suggest anything else I would need to ask/tell them?

I am seriously considering a case of medical negligence.

[Gordon57]

To try and ease your mind, and get some helpful questions to ask, call the BLF helpline first. 03000 030 555 Mon-Fri 10-6.

It may also help to talk to the PALS team at the hospital, if you have not been able to do that yet. I know you had the info on how to reach them last time I passed it on. If the patient isn't being cared for properly then they are the people who can help you sort it all out.

It is infuriating when things are not working out as they should, and when you're left waiting for people to call you back. I'd even go as far as keeping a diary of events so you can pass that to the PCT for them to look at, if you don't get anywhere with PALS.

[dall05]

I'll ring you back is the last thing you wan't to hear. If only there was a way of bringing that person to count for using the term so flippantly, probably knowing they are not going to follow it up. Very very very frustrating. If you complain to the same person they will wonder why your making such a fuss. GRRRRR!!

[KingoftheCocktails]

I find that to be disgusting behaviour.Try phoneing BLF helpline 03000 030 555 before visiting the hospital tomorrow ,time permitting.

[Poppin]

Thanks for the replies, I will ring BLF tomorrow, I feel I am harassing them.

I haven't yet rung PALS, I will see how I get on tomorrow with doctor but if I get no joy, then that is next on the list.

Many thanks

[Hidden]

Good luck with it all! When they say they will call you back, always make a note of there name.Do hope your Mother recieves good care now, all the best to you both,

Love Wendells xxx

[PollyP]

Hi Poppin,

What a sad story for you and your Mum, agree with Gordon and contact, BLF and PALS for more information and support.

My feeling these days is we, as patients (and carers) have to really be on top of things to manage these health issues from GP level to Hospital care. Which although I was a nurse, now as patient I have had to develop a steep learning curve to manage my health, to be assertive when I need to, and learn which services are where and how they can be accessed.

I do hope that support for your Mum and your self will come your way soon. You will have a local carers organisation as well, so may be worth getting in touch with them.

With love and hope!

PollyP

[Poppin]

Hi Polly,

I used to be a nurse too, but left the profession 13 years ago. I have to say I am shocked and saddened by the lack of basic care in a hospital setting, drinks left out of reach, iv fluids left to run out, I have lost count of the times I have turned the drips off etc.

It seemed so much better when I was nursing.

It seems like a full time job in trying to find which services are available, and accessing them is a constant battle. Maybe I am expecting too much

[katieoxo60]

Hi Poppin you still sound very upset with your mothers treatment,Pals although attached to the hospital can sometimes get things moving more swiftly and give you details of where you may find further help. Local carers groups are another brilliant port of call as they will support you, may even have been through similar problems.If I was you I would see my own GP and say your mums lack of care is affecting your health then they may be able to help you get things done . Good luck with everything tommorrow remember this illness is ongoing and needs to be managed now and in the future by your mum's GP and other services. A care plan would be helpful in your case as your the sole carer at present.