Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital 2021-12-08 Person 5 5 0

Firstly I should explain that I have myself been a medical professional for over thirty years, so, with experience comes knowledge and I am well aware of the standards required by governing bodies like the Health Inspectorate Wales and the Care Quality Commission in England. I would also like to think that during my professional career I have always worked to the very best of my ability and have always tried to adhere to the strict standards of care. Sadly it seems that reading many of the reviews concerning our NHS, and especially at the current time due to Covid 19, there appears to be much consternation about the healthcare in this country. Whilst I appreciate that even with the most diligent and professional care, there will be cases that do fall short of certain standards, I feel it is important to convey my own recent experience of our NHS. I was recently admitted to The Grange University Hospital for an ENT procedure. Not only was this my first operation involving a general anaesthetic but it also required an alternative method of anaesthesia due to the nature of the procedure. Although philosophical about the fact that the operation had to be performed, it would be untrue if I did not admit I was extremely nervous. So…I cannot stress enough how wonderful EVERYONE involved in my procedure was. I mean everyone! From the ladies that organised the initial consultations at the Royal Gwent Hospital, to admission at the Grange University Hospital. The kindness and compassion of everyone was outstanding. The truly awful part for me is that you are not always able to remember everyone’s names…which is so sad as they are all part of one GREAT TEAM. I would however like to name a few… My consultant Mr Harris for his absolute professionalism throughout. My anaesthetist and his team for taking the time to listen to my individual needs before during and after my operation. The theatre nurse who held my hand so comfortingly and reassuringly. The recovery nurse who although I’m sure I wasn’t quite coherent was another reassuring voice. The porters who should never be overlooked…their people skills were second to none and we even had a giggle on the way up to theatre. The ward staff…goodness me, they were fantastic, both night and day staff. A huge thank you to Abi, Darcie,Toni and Beth for all your kindness. …and of course who could forget Dawn(House Keeping) and Donna(Hospitality). Ladies…you were amazing! Have you any idea what it’s like to be deprived of a cup of tea…a necessity of course prior to an operation….but “wow!” I was so grateful when I could have one. Just as I ordered…strong…with just a pinch of sugar. The food was great…ordered with thought and care and hot when it arrived. It was an unexpected pleasure to have a single bedded room but let us not loose sight of the most important matters. The room was spotless! “Thank you” Dawn…you have such a happy disposition. I will be thinking of you this weekend….fingers crossed all goes ok for you. Don’t forget no matter what we do we are all just a cog in a big wheel and without all of us working together….the wheel just doesn’t work. This is my recent and truthful experience of the Grange University Hospital. I believe you should give credit where credit is due…so a huge “thank you” to everyone. Wishing you all a “happy, peaceful and above all safe” Christmas and 2022. My grateful thanks Rachel