I am writing about the care my child (who is a young adult) received after presenting to hospital following a serious assault.
On the night of the incident, they attended the hospital after being attacked by multiple individuals, including being strangled. They were in significant pain and had visible facial injuries.
Despite explaining what had happened, both my child and their partner felt dismissed. The nurse’s manner was perceived as rude and lacking compassion, and the doctor did not appear to carry out a thorough assessment of his injuries.
My child was discharged, given only paracetamol and an antibiotic, and was made to walk home, with instructions to return the following morning. This was particularly concerning given they had reported strangulation and significant facial trauma.
The following day, when they returned, their condition was reassessed and taken much more seriously. My child transferred by ambulance to another hospital, where it was confirmed that they had sustained a broken jaw in two places, requiring surgery.
The contrast in care between the two presentations was significant. While we are very grateful for the professionalism and compassion shown by staff the following day, the initial response has caused considerable distress.
This experience raises serious concerns about the assessment and management of patients presenting after violent assault, particularly where strangulation is involved.
I am sharing this in the hope that it leads to reflection and improvement in how such cases are handled, so that others in similar situations receive appropriate and timely care from the outset.
"Concerns regarding assessment and discharge"
About: Margaret River Hospital / Emergency Department Margaret River Hospital Emergency Department Margaret River 6285
Posted by Concerned-Parent2026 (as ),
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