"Communication on patients to their family/carers"

My partner was recently admitted into your hospital for six days waiting a transfer to another hospital for a Pacemaker. This was during the COVID19 visitor restrictions. We understood about these restrictions, although they were difficult for us, especially my partner.

The main issue I faced during this time was the lack of information that was shared to me (partner/carer and Enduring Medical Power of Attorney). My partner was overwhelmed with trying to remember everything to keep me updated on their condition. This is especially frustrating when I had previously advised the hospital that any updates needed to come to me as their Carer. After a few days, my partner stated to me that they felt that they would be forgotten re their transfer and probably should go home to die.  

I called daily - only once or twice a day so as not to overwhelm the staff - to receive all relevant information; however, it was only after breaking down in tears on the night of day three after my partner's comments and tears, that I was finally able to speak to a Doctor and receive these details.  

I am aware of the difficulties COVID has placed on both medical staff and family members as I have experienced this over the past year with numerous admissions for my partner, but still find it appalling that I get little to no information.

Why do loved ones/carers have to fight so hard to receive relevant information that I believe should be freely available/given, especially to those who are responsible for caregiving/recovery at home and who have an Enduring Medical Power of Attorney as has happened in my experience? 

During my experiences over this past year, I am now under the impression that a lot of hospital staff forget that these vulnerable patients are sent home to be cared for by their loved ones. 

I believe hospital admissions are not just about the Patients it is also about their loved ones, those who care and nurse them 24/7... something to think about!