Queen Alexandra Hospital 2018-12-04 Person 5 5 0

I was well impressed with my visit today. I was seen early which was brilliant and there was minimal wait between the different stages. The care at every stage ranged from excellent to outstanding. There was no queue at reception, the lady smiled and was cheerful, took my details and directed me to the seating area. I was there 10 mins max when I was taken through, Mphasa checked me in and did the basics, she was very thorough and calming which was good because like most people I was anxious about having a medical procedure. She then took me to the next waiting area where an assistant Anaesthetist came in and checked my details, he was followed by Dr Nick Campkin the Consultant Anaethetist/Surgeon who also checked my details, against my file and the booked procedure which he explained, checked if I had any questions and ensured I was comfortable with everything. Dr Campkin was also reassuring and calming and I felt I was in capable hands. I entered the operating area and was greeted by Chris the Radiographer who also made me feel at ease, this is so important. Then, Caroline the Theatre Nurse introduced herself and checked my details, that I was ready, that everyone knew what the procedure was and that they had all the equipment ready. All this checking & care gave me confidence that I was in very capable hands, this is important to the nervous patient. They talked me through the procedure as they went so there were no surprises, I didnt feel any pain and it was over very quickly and I was on my way to the recovery area. Here, Lou the Recovery Practitoner ensured I was comfortable and offered me a much needed drink & something to eat which was so welcome as I hadn't eaten anything since breakfast (as instructed) at 8 a.m and it was now 4p.m. I was offered tea or coffee and a choice of sandwiches or biscuit. This was now 5 star service, I had to remind myself that this was the NHS ! I chose tea and a Tuna sandwich, the tea was so welcome and the sandwich, tuna and cheese was sliced into triangles, making it easy to handle and eat. Fantastic. Lou kept checking that I was alright and then took my blood pressure etc. The Recovery Care was Outstanding. Having been treated Privately previously, I can honestly say that this was just as good. 10/10. I would like to thank all of the above named for treating me so well, for being so caring and calming. Not always easy when you are dealing with so many people every day. I was treated as though I was the only patient they'd seen all day when I'm sure I was one of many. Thank you all.