A Disappointing Pre-Operative Assessment Experience Using Gibbs' Model (Consuela Caruntu)

 

Reflective Essay: A Disappointing Pre-Operative Assessment Experience Using Gibbs' Model

1. Description

On June 25, 2025, I attended a pre-operative assessment at Spire London Hospital for gallbladder removal surgery. I had been experiencing severe and ongoing symptoms for months, which had been confirmed by my GP as being caused by gallstones. I expected this appointment to be straightforward, focusing on finalising my surgery.

However, during the assessment, the consultant informed me that I did not appear to have “typical gallstone symptoms” and described my previous scan as “mediocre.” Despite my clear and repeated explanations of the discomfort I had been experiencing, no further tests, scans, or referrals were offered. The consultant made the decision to cancel my surgery based purely on this brief conversation and my old scan. I was sent home without any treatment plan, further investigations, or guidance on what to do next.

2. Feelings

Initially, I felt shocked and confused. I couldn’t understand how such an important decision about my health was made without proper assessment or further investigation. I also felt frustrated and powerless, as I believed I had not been listened to or taken seriously.

As I left the hospital, these feelings deepened into disappointment and anger. I felt dismissed—as though my health concerns were unimportant. I also felt anxious and uncertain about what to do next, especially as my physical symptoms remained unresolved. The emotional impact of feeling unheard and disregarded stayed with me long after the appointment.

3. Evaluation

There were no positive aspects to this experience. I had gone in hoping to be supported and reassured, yet the interaction left me distressed and feeling abandoned by the healthcare system.

The negative aspects were significant. There was no shared decision-making, and no effort was made to explore alternative options or next steps. Communication throughout the assessment was poor; I felt that the consultant was uninterested in understanding my situation fully. I was particularly disappointed that my willingness to pay privately for additional tests wasn’t even acknowledged.

4. Analysis

This experience highlights a fundamental failure in both clinical care and communication. The consultant appeared to rely solely on verbal discussion without seeking further evidence to guide decision-making, which raises concerns about the safety and quality of care.

More importantly, there was a clear communication breakdown. Effective communication is crucial in healthcare, not only for accurate diagnoses but also for ensuring patients feel supported and respected. My experience demonstrates how poor communication can cause patients to feel dismissed and powerless, leading to emotional distress alongside physical suffering.

Additionally, this case raises ethical concerns. Patients deserve to be fully informed about their care, including any doubts about diagnoses, alternative tests, or treatment options. I was denied this opportunity, leaving me without a clear path forward.

5. Conclusion

From this reflection, I have learned how crucial patient-centred care and clear communication are in healthcare settings. Clinicians must actively listen to patients, involve them in decision-making, and clearly explain their reasoning and available options.

My experience also reinforced the importance of advocating for myself as a patient. Though I was left feeling dismissed, I followed up by formally requesting an investigation and asking key questions about my care.

6. Action Plan

In the future, if I encounter a similar situation, I will:

• Clearly assert my right to be fully informed and involved in decisions about my care.

• Ask directly about alternative tests, referrals, or second opinions during the consultation itself.

• Bring written notes of my symptoms and previous test results to support my case clearly.

• Consider bringing a friend or relative for emotional support and to help ensure that my concerns are fully addressed.

• Follow up in writing immediately after the appointment if I feel my concerns have been ignored.

For healthcare providers, this reflection highlights the need for training and emphasis on effective communication, empathy, and shared decision-making in all patient interactions.