"Thanks to all the smiling, helpful, approachable staff"

I was brought into hospital in the very early hours (4am) after the ambulance crew suggested I should, following heart symptoms and temperature at the end of a week long treatment for a urine infection. The crew were amazing and their manner really put me at ease. 

I was prepared for a long wait at the hospital, but was seen fairly promptly once in the fast assessment ward. This was all done with care and kindness. I was then moved to a sit and wait area to see a doctor, but I hadn’t realised the junior doctors were on strike. Anyway, I had no choice but to wait for blood tests etc.

The care and attention I received from every member of staff during my wait was amazing. It was very early (I think by then it was only about 6.30am)  but one of the staff offered me tea, which was very welcome. They came over to check on me constantly and were always very kind. The doctor (Steve, I think) was lovely, too. I needed an x-ray, which, again, was a good experience. All the staff were very patient with me and offered to help carry my belongings because I currently use sticks to get around.

I was taken to another waiting area to allow room for more patients, which initially seemed strange, but actually the change of environment really helps, I think. Bananas were brought around - very welcome after hours of waiting. And, once again, the staff were all wonderful. 

Although each member of staff took care to introduce themselves and ask how I would like to be known I’m afraid most names are forgotten. 

It feels good to report in such a glowing and positive way: I have a great deal of experience with Dorchester Hospital in several different departments and not all of it has been good. I saw a marked change. 

Thanks to all the smiling, helpful, approachable staff for making my stay pleasant and useful. Thankfully I feel so much better this morning and so much of that is down to my experience yesterday.