"I witnessed true patient centred care that was compassionate"

I was seen at ED in Crosshouse.  The staff although working under considerable pressure were kind, caring and compassionate and everyone greeted me with a smile.  They all went the extra mile to make me feel safe and secure.  

Amy in Triage was amazing and made me feel calm.  I was then seen initially by Medical Student Ben who was so kind and made me feel at ease.  Then Greig the Doctor came to see me and explained everything so well and gave me a clear plan so that I understood what was going to happen and that there may be a period that I would feel that I was waiting about but I understood why this was.  Student Nurse Zoe was just amazing again she kept me well informed always had a smile.  Wherever she works when she qualifies I am sure she will be such an asset to the team.

With the crossover of shifts I never had to retell my story and the next shift was just as nice as the day shift.  Kelly and Kerry were lovely.  Stephen was great and again kept me fully informed and when he saw that I was getting anxious reassured me and kept me calm.  Consultant Morton  explained everything so well and went through his plan so that I fully understood what his concerns were and why it would not be appropriate for me to go home even though I was concerned about how busy they were and that there was a shortage of beds.  A lovely health care support worker got me a bed so that I didn't have to sleep on a trolley and also transferred me to CAU when a bed was available.

When I arrived at CAU again it was clear that they were extremely busy but again I was met with smiles and concern that they only had a recliner chair and no bed.  They ensured I was settled and comfortable and oriented to the area and even though it was the middle of the night offered me food and a hot drink.  In the morning Nurses Jade and Pamela were lovely and kept me fully informed with what was happening and the plan of care.  I was reviewed by the medical team and ANP Karen on the ward round and again they were amazing.  As soon as all my test results were back Karen came to see me and went over them with me and discussed self care with me prior to discharge.

I am aware that these are difficult times for our NHS and that teams are working to full capacity.  However what I witnessed was true patient centred care that was compassionate.  I witnessed true team working within both departments that made me feel safe and well cared for.  Crosshouse Hospital should be proud of the care they are providing and of the team working they are displaying.