"Eating disorder (lack of) treatment"

My partner was admitted to Ipswich Hospital through the emergency department after not eating for several days due to OSFED. I believe the treatment they received was a combination of lack of training around eating disorders and stereotypes around what a person with an eating disorder looks like.

They had a nasogastric tube placed however the tube placed was designed for drainage not feeding, so was bigger in diameter than a feeding tube and caused issues when it came time to start feeds, where we thought the tube would have to be replaced - a very traumatic process. Thankfully the nurses of ward 7A were able to find a workaround and avoided having to replace the tube.

My partner’s previous admission for eating disorder treatment under similar circumstances involved them being placed on NBM and fluid restriction to control the risk of refeeding syndrome. This time, they were erratically taken off NBM and given large meals in addition to the tube feed, then placed back on NBM for the next meal. This was confusing and distressing for both of us as we would go to great lengths to attempt oral food, only to find out this was for nought.

After just two days, we were abruptly told that the risk of refeeding syndrome was negligible and could be managed by our GP in the community. The dietitian thankfully gave us a resource around meal planning but was not able to do a proper consultation or help us with the meal planning process. They were not given a place to wait for me to come pick them up.

Additionally, although they had postural tachycardia and blood pressure drops, and they were told on admission they would not be able to walk to the toilet or stand in the shower, they regularly walked to the toilet in front of the nurses I believe. They were able to self harm despite being in a high vis bed.

I’m deeply disappointed with the actions of Ipswich Hospital and the inappropriate treatment has caused distress for myself and my partner, and caused my partner to feel as though seeking help was the wrong thing to do.