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Care Opinion

Please call Next of Kin

Posted By plutosd75

"Please call Next of Kin"

About: Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital / Emergency Department

(as a carer),

Recently my sibling was treated in the Emergency Department of Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital after losing consciousness and suffering a head trauma whilst in public (deeply grateful for the help of an off-call doctor who rendered first aid and called an ambulance).

Whilst my sibling was in the ED they were unable to contact their next of kin (myself) as they were in and out of consciousness, I understand my sibling asked the staff on numerous occasions to contact me.

Of significant concern to my sibling, was that fact that their child was expecting to be picked up from school and they knew they were unable do this.

It was only after their child and I tracked my sibling's phone that we realised they were in hospital.

They were in the ED for 5 hours, asking for their next of kin, and nobody called me.

I appreciate the department is busy, but I feel this is essential for safe and effective practice.

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Responses

Response from Jodi Graham, Executive Director, Sir Charles Gairdner Osborne Park Health Care Group 8 months ago
Jodi Graham
Executive Director,
Sir Charles Gairdner Osborne Park Health Care Group

Submitted on 23/08/2023 at 10:03 AM
Published on Care Opinion at 10:43 AM

picture of Jodi Graham

Dear plutosd75,

Thank you for taking the time to share your story regarding your siblings recent visit to the Emergency Department (ED) at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital (SCGH). It must have been a really frightening experience but so lucky that a doctor was passing and was able to assist.

We acknowledge what a worrying time it is for carer’s too when they are not aware their loved one has suddenly become unwell and been taken to hospital.

I can only imagine how concerned you would have been particularly when your sibling was not able to collect their child from school.

We recognise the importance of letting the next of kin know when patients arrive in ED and are unable to contact their loved ones, so it was disappointing to hear that this was not your experience.

I will ensure your feedback is shared with our ED staff so they can identify any areas for improvement in our communication processes.

I do hope your sibling has made a good recovery and wish them all the best.

Warm regards

Jodi Graham

Executive Director, SCGOPHCG

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