Family left Unsupported during patient discharge

I arrived at Karl Bremer Hospital to collect my brother, who was due for discharge. Unfortunately, the experience left me deeply concerned about the level of patient care and dignity being upheld.

When I arrived, my elderly brother was lying skew in his bed, not propped up in a sitting position. He was still in his hospital gown, with a wet adult diaper. When I asked the nursing staff if they could please dress him and assist with changing him before discharge, I was told it was my responsibility to do so. I explained that I am his sister, not his wife or caregiver, yet I was still pressured to help them dress him.

When it came time to leave, there was no porter assistance offered. I asked how I was supposed to get my brother from the wheelchair into the car, as I cannot carry him myself. I was told by the nurse to ask security. Unsurprisingly, security did not assist either. In the end, I had to approach an ambulance driver outside the hospital, who was shocked to hear that I had received no help, as he said porters are supposed to assist patients with such needs.

This experience left me disappointed and saddened. My brother’s dignity was not prioritized, and the burden of care was unfairly shifted onto family without proper support. As a government hospital, I believe Karl Bremer should uphold higher standards of patient care, ensuring that patients and families are treated with compassion and respect—especially at such a vulnerable time.

Another thing I would like to mention is that there is no answer on the telephones at Karl Bremer. I called for 6 hours non stop from Saturday 6pm to 01h00am Sunday and only got the phone answered 7 hours later.