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Poor bedside manner

Posted By Pacifier

"Poor bedside manner"

About: Fiona Stanley Hospital / Emergency Department

(as the patient),

Several staff members at the Emergency department appeared lacking in basic empathy. One nurse complained about how tired they were. I replied I know what that’s like, but they didn’t seem interested in my feelings. Another nurse kept telling us to walk fast while showing us the way. Another nurse pushed a thermometer in my ear without warning. They then asked me if I wanted them to give me an enema, or whether I could do it myself. When I replied I didn’t know how, they went and got the equipment and performed the enema without warning. I have worked in hospitals most of my adult life and know what it’s like to be extremely stressed, but I believe there is no excuse for what I feel was this rude and disrespectful behaviour.

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Responses

Response from Luke Dix, Acting Executive Director, Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospital Group, South Metropolitan Health Service yesterday
Luke Dix
Acting Executive Director, Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospital Group,
South Metropolitan Health Service

Submitted on 29/04/2026 at 2:00 PM
Published on Care Opinion Australia at 4:50 PM

picture of Luke Dix

Dear Pacifier,

Thank you for taking the time to share your recent experience at the Fiona Stanley Hospital Emergency Department (ED).

I am very sorry to hear that your visit left you feeling distressed and disrespected. What you have described certainly does not align with the standard of care and communication we aim to provide, regardless of how busy or challenging the environment may be.

I am deeply concerned by your comments regarding procedures being undertaken without clear explanation. It is imperative that all patients understand what is happening to them and that care is provided with dignity and appropriate consent. Patients should feel safe, and that practice is respectful, and it was incredibly disappointing to read that was not your experience.

We recognise that the ED can be an overwhelming place for patients and their families, and it is particularly important that people feel listened to, treated with dignity, and supported through clear and respectful communication during vulnerable moments.

Please be assured that your concerns have been taken seriously and will be reviewed with our clinical leadership to better understand what occurred and identify where improvements are needed. This includes reinforcing expectations around clear communication, professionalism, and informed consent.

While we are unable to discuss individual circumstances in a public forum, we would welcome the opportunity to speak with you directly and explore your concerns further. If you feel comfortable, please contact our Patient and Family Liaison Service on (08) 6152 4013 or via email at FSHFeedback@health.wa.gov.au. The team can talk you through the review process and assist with progressing this matter if you wish.

Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I am sorry that your experience caused you distress and extend my sincere sympathy for the impact this has had on you.

Kind regards,

Luke Dix

A/Executive Director

Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group

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