"Disrespectful and rude Nurse in emergency department"

I visited the Emergency Department at Greenslopes Hospital around 11pm with my spouse, who was in excruciating pain.

We are a young Asian couple, and this was a deeply distressing moment for us. Upon arrival, we approached the counter and spoke to a male nurse. I asked if it was possible for my spouse to see a doctor. Instead of showing any concern or asking what was wrong, they immediately told us—with what I felt was a dismissive and condescending tone—that there would be at least a one-hour wait just to see a nurse for triage. Without any empathy or effort to understand the urgency of our situation, they then added, in what I felt was a sassy manner, that there would be a $500 upfront fee, not including the doctor’s consultation.

We felt judged, unwelcome, and deeply disrespected. In a moment when compassion and professionalism were most needed, we were met with rudeness and indifference. This experience has left us shaken and disappointed, and I believe it deserves serious attention.

At the time, we just felt loss, frustrated, and have lost hope that eventually we just went home with my spouse still in excruciating pain