In a well-known hospital, we recently encountered a problem that may have affected all of us, but we were reluctant to speak out about it.
My father had a severe headache, which was later diagnosed as a blood clot (haemotama).
We went to the hospital for a routine checkup when we learned that my father was suffering from a critical condition and required emergent brain surgery.
We agreed to the procedure because we didn't want to lose our father and because they had convinced us that he would be fine following a quick procedure.
After this significant procedure, the patient was transferred to the general ward within two hours without performing a proper observation, which is unusual.
Here, his condition deteriorated further, and we let the relevant medics know about it.
As soon as possible, they sent him to the intensive care unit. The following morning, to our great surprise, physicians informed us that they needed to perform another brain operation right away.
Despite explaining the steps and difficulties of this surgery, the doctors made us afraid that we would lose the patient if this didn't happen.
We immediately agreed to the surgery because keeping him alive was our sole concern.
After the second procedure, the physicians left for another country, so he checked on the patient's vitals by phone with the nurse.
Because they were unaware of the patient's history of diabetes, the nurses who were in charge of checking the vitals neglected to check the glucose level.
My father's glucose level rose to 700 as a result of the nurses' poor treatment, and a doctor later told us that this could be the cause of his present stage (Coma).
Later, the doctor requested that we discharge the patient because they were unable to provide any further care.
We immediately began to make plans to transfer him to another hospital, but the hospital administration stopped us, saying that they wouldn't let us take the patient unless all outstanding debts were paid.
(Situations like blocking the ambulance, closing the gates, and other things we see in movies never occurred to us as real-life events.)
Accepting the situation, we were prepared to pay the money, but they kept us waiting for more than 4 hours by making up reasons like the billing department was closed (the idea that a private hospital would not have a billing department is hilarious).
As rational beings, we realized that waiting with broken hearts and tearful eyes would be better than fighting (which is difficult with the patient on a stretcher). Eventually, after paying all the fees, we were able to transfer the patient to another hospital.
Unfortunately, dad is no longer with us, and without our father, the world is black.
The response from the administrator was revolting (I've attached the reply screen shot as well). His reply to me was very haughty where he used words like "low standard people, IDIOTS" which shows his hospital ethics and values for the patients. After two months, I posted our worst experience with this hospital on their website in the hopes that this may help others save the lives of their loved ones.
His initial response was quickly followed by a subsequent one as many individuals voiced their opinions about it.
Here's how their politics work: the hospital management wants to maintain a rating of approximately 3.5, so for every negative review, we can expect to see 10 positive ones within an hour.
I am aware that we lack the resources and strength to confront them and show that they made a mistake.
Doctors are quite comfortable in their own skin and won't admit to making mistakes, even when they were.
They use a variety of medical words that the average person would not comprehend to get around these errors.
I'm not sure how many of you will agree with me, but I just wanted to let everyone know about the politics at the hospital.
We also ask that you spread the word about "Think twice before choosing a hospital" to as many people as possible to raise doctors' awareness. I have nothing against physicians, but I do have a problem with those that only see people to make money.
The traumatic experience of a family seeking care for their ailing father underscores the necessity for vigilance, understanding, and informed decision-making in a world where healthcare is of utmost importance. This actual event serves as a reminder that for the greatest results, patient advocacy, extensive research, and open communication with healthcare professionals are crucial. This particular case study highlights the value of patient empowerment while illuminating the difficulties and traps present in the healthcare system.
Lesson Learned:
The story unfolds with a family facing an unexpected medical crisis when their father is diagnosed with a severe headache caused by a hematoma (blood clot). The family rushes to a well-known hospital, trusting the expertise of the medical professionals. However, their journey takes an unsettling turn as the hospital recommends immediate brain surgery, painting a grim picture of the patient's condition. Desperation leads them to agree to the operation, with the hope of saving their father's life.
The story begins with a family dealing with an unanticipated medical emergency after learning that their father has a blood clot-induced acute headache. The family makes a hasty trip to a reputable hospital, putting their faith in the knowledge of the medical staff. Their voyage, however, takes a frightening turn when the hospital paints a dire picture of the patient's health and advises quick brain surgery. They consent to the surgery out of desperation in the hopes that their father would survive.
A disturbing chain of events occurs after the initial surgery as the patient is transferred to a general ward without being properly monitored. The family expresses their fears as the situation quickly worsens. The patient is hurriedly moved to the ICU, where a second brain surgery will be performed. The family, grappling with fear and uncertainty, consents to the procedure, unaware of the unfolding ordeal.
The patient's history of diabetes is overlooked in the confusion. The patient's condition worsens as a result of the nursing staff's carelessness, and he eventually enters a coma. The ensuing difficulties the family faces in receiving appropriate care and the hospital's response to their plight only add to their suffering.
The Turning Point: Resistance and Advocacy
The family's tenacity and advocacy shine through as they travel this heartbreaking path. Despite budgetary limitations and administrative roadblocks, they are able to move the patient to a different hospital in the face of difficulty. Tragically, the patient passes away as a result of the sequence of events and their unsuccessful efforts.
The family decides to post their experience on the hospital website, which serves as both a release for their sorrow and a source of inspiration for others. The hospital administrator's initial response exhibits insensitivity and haughtiness, which emphasizes the importance of improving patient communication and empathy.
Reaction and recommendations for action:
The response the family's story received from the general public highlights how commonplace their experience is. People from the community share their own accounts of medical facilities' poor administration, incompetence, and exploitation. In the midst of the outpouring of sympathy, concerns over the hospital's name surface as the public calls for responsibility and transparency.
Because of the family's bravery, others will be inspired to take an active part in their healthcare decisions. Calls for fundamental reform, patient-centered treatment, and a fair system of ratings and reviews gain traction. A common demand for healthcare that is focused on the needs of the patient emerges among the shared pain and anger.
This family's experience is a unique case study that emphasizes the value of well-informed decision-making, patient advocacy, and an open healthcare system. Stories like this serve as a reminder that every person has the potential to demand accountability, push change, and make educated decisions as society struggles with the complexity of contemporary medicine. Beyond one family's grief, the call to action spurs an initiative for patient empowerment and a more sympathetic healthcare system.
Disclaimer:
The information presented in this article is based on a real patient experience shared on a well-known online forum. The purpose of sharing this patient story is solely to provide insight and awareness to fellow patients, caregivers, and the general public. The intention behind sharing this experience is to promote informed decision-making and empower individuals with valuable information about healthcare experiences. The article does not intend to defame or criticize any individual, hospital, or healthcare provider. It is important to note that each medical situation is unique, and the experiences shared may not be applicable to every healthcare facility or scenario. Readers are encouraged to use their discretion and consult with qualified medical professionals for personalized advice and care. The article does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views expressed in the article are those of the original poster and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author, website, or platform.
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