Having last stayed in a hospital 30 years ago, I was rather nervous about coming into St. Thomas', albeit for what I now understand is a reasonably routine implantation of a pacemaker - on 31/3/2015. Turning first to the 'doctors' (apologies if I can't remember all the categories of staff involved with my procedure), I was completely astonished at the sheer number of individuals who were involved - about 7 or so. I had no idea that so many are required for a safe outcome and as I was awake (deliberately!) during the operation, it was fascinating to actually hear how professionally everything is organised and then implemented. And there was time for some communication with me which was of great comfort. Next to the nurses on Becket Ward. All were kind, considerate & caring and where time permitted, they made the effort to get to know me a little; difficult skills to master in a short stay of 3 days and where there was no shortage of work to do! If it's not unfair to mention individuals, the nurse on night duty kept a particular eye on me in the middle night of my stay - as I had taken a turn somewhat for the worse - and they were also very kind after the implantation as I needed some physical help in getting to the loo. Another nurse was also particularly helpful in reassuring me about the operation and making sure that I was as comfortable as possible afterwards - and for making sure that I was fed! But everyone was great. The toilets/shower room were very clean and the person who cleaned the part of the ward I was parked in seemed very conscientious to me. All in all, I would say thank you very much to all who were involved in my care for making a hospital stay - never going to be much fun - a good deal more than bearable.
"Pacemaker implantation out of Becket Ward"
About: St Thomas' Hospital (London) St Thomas' Hospital (London) London SE1 7EH
Posted via nhs.uk
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