"A disappointing scan"

Had a somewhat negative experience at a recent antenatal scan appointment at Anderson House in Altnagelvin, Derry. 

The clinic was very busy, we were advised there may be a wait as soon as we arrived as a few doctors were off sick, which was fine however we didn't anticipate waiting over 2 hours later before being seen but we accepted this as the staff were doing everything they could and we could see they were extremely busy. 

Upon entering the scan we met a doctor, who was lovely, they explained to us what was happening and asked us relevant questions etc so there were no issues with that.

However, when it came to getting the ultrasound scan, the doctor mentioned there was an update done, which meant they were having difficulty navigating the machine. Due to the position of our baby they also seemed to struggle to get accurate measurements and mentioned how a cursor kept moving.

Initially, due to this we were told the baby's femur hadn't grown, then it had, and then we were told this will be calculated manually. Most of the appointment was watching the doctor struggle to use the ultrasound so we weren't told much about the baby, other than the baby being fine.

Whilst the doctor was struggling they asked if we could get a drink and come back, however the assistant in the room mentioned it was very busy and they didn't have the scope for this, which again was completely understandable and we didn't particularly want to do this either. The assistant did also ask the doctor if they wished for them to get another doctor in to see if they could get measurements, but the doctor declined and said they had got it now. 

Both myself and my husband were completely disappointed by the scan, it was quite late on in our pregnancy so at this stage we are very nervous to make sure everything was ok with baby. We weren't told the approximate weight, however we also didn't ask at the time due to everything going on with the scan and I knew I could check my notes. Upon checking the notes after the appointment we also realised that the baby's weight was logged as around 178lb, which is obviously completely incorrect. This was likely due to the lack of measurements etc. 

We had no issue with staff whatsoever, never do and all of my other scans and clinics have been relaxed and fine. It was clear to see that day they were under a lot of pressure, which is understandable. However, a doctor not being overly familiar with the ultrasound system or how to work it really set us back and deflated us on the day. I'm sure due to how busy they were that other individuals had to have experienced the same issues during their scan with this doctor. 

I just thought I'd highlight this, not to be malicious but that due to staff pressures issues can arise. Overall, our experience with Anderson house has been amazing, and hopefully something like this doesn't arise again.