"Went for an pelvic and internal ultrasound"

I went for an appointment for an internal ultrasound. 

From the beginning when the sonographer called for me they didn't pronounce my name correctly so I gently reminded them what it was and thinking they didn't hear, I repeated it. They did not acknowledge it and provide acknowledgement or apology (that might have been what went against me, but this shouldn't have!).  

When on the table preparing for my ultrasound, the sonographer did not acknowledge or make me feel heard. I remarked I had a very painful left hand side the reason for me being slow to get into the correct position because I had actually fractured my lower left rib the week before (from an unrelated incident). 

Again there was no reaction or acknowledgement of this comment either (not saying something like "oh that must be sore... just take your time.." ). It was as if I had said nothing at all.

They told me my bladder wasn't full enough like it was supposed to be for the first part of the ultrasound but I told them I had followed the instructions carefully.  The sonographer said I must have been dehydrated and suggested I go back outside to the waiting area to sit and wait for it to fill up some more. I asked the sonographer why they wanted that and they answered  I didn't want the internal ultrasound because I had not given permission for this. How so?  They showed me the additional piece of paper given to me in reception that showed I didn't circle "consent" and instead of clarifying this with me at the beginning of the exam and that I may have forgotten, it seems they just made an assumption I didn't want it.  I told the sonographer I was there for both please, and so they instructed me to circle the word and I did as instructed.  I had plainly overlooked this yet there was no apology for this misunderstanding or any acknowledgement of my comments during that session. I felt I was definitely not being heard or validated.

I felt the sonographer was very robotic in their approach and I feel this person is not suited in a health care setting. The sonographer may have had a bad morning, but in my opinion that is no excuse and certainly not my fault if that was the case.

During and afterwards, I felt uncomfortable and thought about this unpleasant experience all day.

I'm a registered nurse myself (for over 30 years) and I believe a caring and empathetic attitude is vital to a patient's emotional wellbeing especially in this setting which takes into account not only the physical health of the individual, but also their emotional needs. I have certainly always had an abundance of those necessary skills, which is also in my nature.

Very disappointed.