I was waiting at the hospital when this sign caught my eye.

Within the (mere) four lines, they have somehow managed to shift the focus between staff and patients in a most confusing manner.

At first, it seemed like they were advocating patients’ rights. Which was all good.

And then, with the last sentence, a twist – management will take action only if their own staff are abused, but will accept all complaints against their own. So if patients are abused, whether or not action will be taken against staff, is another matter altogether?

Honestly, it took me quite a while to digest these simple four sentences because they don’t ‘read’ well. One of the little nuances between the spoken and written word, possibly.

Perhaps their message would read better this way.

No one deserves to be abused.
We aim to provide our patients with the best possible care. If our services fall below expectations, tell us.

SGH Management will take action against anyone abusing our staff.

Of course, in my opinion, ending with
” SGH Management will take action against anyone abusing our staff or patients.“  sounds the best of all!