kashy S.
Google
That day, I attended a regular prenatal check-up with my OB-GYN, Dr. Litvik, who found my blood pressure dangerously elevated at 166. She performed an EKG and instructed me to go immediately to the Emergency Room at Holy Cross for a CT scan, explaining that despite being 35 weeks pregnant, I should not be redirected to Labor and Delivery (LMD). She made it clear that written instructions were sent to the ER for this purpose.
Upon arrival, I checked in and provided all required insurance and personal information. While I was seated, a nurse named Travis called me in and, upon learning I was 35 weeks pregnant, informed me that the ER would not accept me and I needed to go to LMD. I explained that my OB-GYN had already provided instructions for me to be treated in the ER, but I was still redirected.
At LMD, I was assessed again and kept under observation for about an hour. The attending doctor then confirmed what I had originally stated — that the ER was responsible for my care — and sent me back. Upon returning to the ER, staff began debating how to check me back in, citing “system concerns,” despite the fact that I was clearly already registered and wearing two hospital bands.
During this time, I had an interaction with a front desk staff member (a Muslim woman, whose name I unfortunately do not know), who spoke to me in a rude and dismissive manner. When I asked for an estimated wait time, she said, “You never know, it could take 3 hours or 4,” in a tone that was highly unprofessional and lacking empathy. I was already emotionally drained, hungry, and anxious, and her attitude only worsened the situation.
From 12:00 p.m. to after 2:30 p.m., I was shuffled between departments, left waiting without updates, and forced to advocate for myself repeatedly. As a pregnant woman with elevated blood pressure, this experience was physically and emotionally exhausting. I had not eaten since 8:15 a.m., and no one offered food or assistance. Eventually, I had to ask my husband to speak to someone, and all I received was apple juice from a vending machine.
After persistent follow-up, a staff member finally processed my original check-in. I was told I needed blood work, an X-ray, and a CT scan. I agreed to the blood work but declined the X-ray due to pregnancy risks. Although I was initially hesitant about the CT scan, I proceeded because my OB-GYN insisted on it.
Around 6:50 p.m., I was taken for the CT scan. I was not instructed to remove my watch or earrings, and in my stressed state, I only realized afterward that I had gone through the scan still wearing them — something I understand could have safety or imaging implications.
Later, around 7:50 p.m., a doctor (Dr. Rahm) came in, apologized for the experience, and told me the CT scan did not show any clots, but did reveal a mass near the chest that would require follow-up. I was discharged shortly after.
As I was changing, I overheard the nurse who originally checked me in ask, "Did she get discharged?" Another nurse responded, “Yes, she’s still changing,” followed by a sarcastic applause and laughter from the first nurse — a final moment of completely unprofessional and inappropriate behavior that left me feeling humiliated and dismissed.
I am appalled at the miscommunication, mismanagement, and lack of compassion I experienced during this visit. I do not expect special treatment — but I do expect basic professionalism, clear communication, and respect, particularly in a hospital setting where patients rely on staff during moments of vulnerability.
I urge you to investigate this matter seriously. I am happy to provide further information or assist in identifying staff involved. Please also review CCTV footage from both ER and LMD and refer to my patient record for verification.
