I had the unfortunate experience of having to go to the Rockyview Hospital emergency in spring 2025. I understand volume is exceedingly high. But expecting sick people to sit in hard plastic chairs for over 12 hours feels inhumane. You get a bed to be assessed or if you require a scan. But once it’s over your guided back to a chair. The estimated wait time when I went in was 2 hrs 57 minutes. That I could handle. Over 12 hours is intolerable when you are nauseated and in pain. If patients must sit for an extended period of time concessions must be found to accommodate. I would have laid on an army cot, a reclining lawn chair or anything which allowed me to be laying down. The lengthy delay and what I believe are appalling conditions for sick patients negatively impact their well being. Mentally and physically. I went home after a diagnosis and treatment was given only to find I had to go back a day and a half later. I wrongly assumed that because I was told to come back if things got worse that I would be seen promptly. Nope, I again had to wait 10+ hours in a chair. I finally pleaded for anywhere to lay back as I waited for admission. I’m embarrassed to say this experience was traumatizing. I will never go to Emergency again without a reclining lawn chair or a blanket so that I can lay on the floor. I had no choice but to go hospital. I would have gone to urgent care, Dr., or walk in if I had a choice. I did not have that option. Sitting in hard plastic chairs for hours while sick I feel is cruel. Patients deserve empathetic compassionate care. This experience I feel was none of those.
Environment
Waiting time
Staff attitude
Being listened to
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