Sir, – I was recently a patient in St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, emergency department. I arrived by ambulance, which meant quick access to a trolley, which was placed in the middle of that department, giving me an overview of all that was going on. I was told it was unusually busy, even by the usual crowded standards. This meant over 100 tightly packed trolleys, resulting in incredibly scant circulation space.
I was impressed by the number of investigations I received on my first night – two sets of X-rays, a scan, an ECG and blood tests. I was also deeply moved by the extraordinary level of care given by all the staff – doctors, nurses, porters, radiographers, carers, cleaners and food servers – in such cramped conditions. I was touched by the respect that was shown to each patient; at times this included gentle cajoling and humour.
As a recipient of this care, I note one incident, namely when my rising anxiety levels were quieted by a brief moment of sensitive listening. I was impressed too at the good relationships that appeared to exist between staff members, despite their awful working environment.
Toward the end of my second night, namely after 35 hours, I was taken to a ward, grateful for a bed and grateful too for my exposure to the heroism of staff and the patience of patients. – Yours, etc,
CATHERINE McCANN,
Glenmalure, Co Wicklow.