Netcare Pretoria East nursing staff

My mother has had two distressing experiences with nurses in Ward 20, which have left her feeling unsafe and undignified.

On Sunday, 18 May 2025, she asked a day nurse for help to use the bathroom. The nurse, who was nearing the end of her shift, showed impatience and ultimately left my mother in the bathroom without informing the next shift. She was later found there by another nurse.

This morning, 25 May 2025, a nurse pressured my mother—who has limited mobility and is a certified fall risk—to get out of bed and go to the bathroom without properly assisting her. As a result, my mother fell in the bathroom, landing on her pelvic area where she is battling cancer. Afterwards, the nurse asked if she planned to report the incident, which felt intimidating given my mother’s vulnerability and reliance on nursing staff.

These incidents have deeply affected her sense of dignity and safety. While we are grateful to the many kind and professional staff in Ward 20, these events cannot be overlooked. My mother deserves compassionate care, and she now fears further mistreatment if she speaks up.