Worst Experience in ER: A Patient’s Perspective

Many years ago, I won a high-level fencing competition. My elbow was hurting a bit, and I thought it was a minor strain. However, the pain worsened, making it difficult to find a comfortable position. The discomfort intensified to an unbearable level, and I eventually had to seek medical help at the emergency room (ER).

A Terribilizing Encounter in the ER

The ER was only a 5-minute drive away, and when we arrived, we were immediately put into a room. Unfortunately, no one checked on me for the next three hours. I was writhing in pain, but no one came to my assistance. My wife tried to flag down staff members, but they were either too busy or refused to acknowledge our cries for help. After three hours of enduring excruciating pain, my wife finally managed to get a nurse's attention. However, the nurse simply gave me a Percocet and left, offering no further assistance.

Lessons Learned from Hostile Encounters

This experience highlights the importance of understanding doctors' perspectives and knowing how to navigate challenging situations. Even the best doctors may be subjected to challenging circumstances, leading to short-tempered behavior. As someone who has faced similar hostile encounters, I learned a valuable lesson: to request a patient advocate when things start to go off the rails.

Case Study: A Combat Veteran and ER Mishaps

My late husband, who was a Native American combat veteran, experienced similar issues in the ER. Due to his military background and spinal injuries, our small local hospital often struggled to provide the necessary attention. The ER staff often misjudged him as a drunk and his wife as codependent. Despite my efforts to be polite, professional, and pushy, it was ineffective.

One particular day, my husband had a seizure and was in severe pain from his back injuries. The doctor only saw him as a drunk Indian who needed help. After an exhausting night at work and managing my husband's sudden seizure, I was not at my best. However, I decided to take a drastic measure and called a friend who arrived half an hour later. Our friend intervened by speaking to the hospital's management, resulting in the involvement of the VP of nursing, a head social worker, and a patient advocate.

Together, they ensured my husband received the necessary attention, including CAT scans and a quiet room. The staff's intervention was instrumental in managing my husband's trauma. This experience taught me to request a patient advocate when the situation deteriorates. Patient advocates can be effective trouble shooters, often having a direct line to hospital management, who are typically lawsuit-averse. These individuals are more likely to take care of you to avoid legal issues.

Conclusion and Tips for Better ER Experiences

In summary, my worst experience in the ER was a lesson in perseverance and understanding. Patients should not hesitate to request a patient advocate when things seem to be going off the rails. It is essential to communicate clearly and politely to ensure that the doctor and staff take your concerns seriously. Additionally, being aware of the valuable role a patient advocate can play in ensuring better ER experiences can significantly improve your overall well-being. If you find yourself in a similar situation, consider reaching out to a professional patient advocate for assistance.

For further information and support, you can visit this link to learn more about independent patient advocates and their role in healthcare.