I visited an elderly friend who was recovering from a bout of shingles, taking prescribed medication but feeling severe pain and very concerned. We were tempted to go to our local A&E but decided to try NHS24 - neither of us having used it before.
It worked seamlessly. Information was taken, along with constant queries about breathing and chest pain. A promise of a nurse to ring within 2 hrs, and 1 hour 40 mins later a nurse rang and was very thorough and caring. She was reassuring but suggested A&E visit if transport was available (as it was). She hung up to ring our A&E dept to make appointment. Very soon after our A&E dept rang us to suggest home visit by doctor as the dept was very busy and a visit would entail a very long wait. The doctor visited within 30 mins and was thorough and helpful, prescribing and supplying medication. My friend, the patient is in her late 70s but did all calls herself. I simply listened on loudspeaker in case help was needed.
All in all, a very reassuring experience - for both of us.
"a very reassuring experience"
About: Gilbert Bain Hospital / Accident & emergency Gilbert Bain Hospital Accident & emergency Lerwick ZE1 0TB NHS 24 NHS 24
Posted by Shetland (as ),
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Update posted by Shetland (a friend) 10 years ago
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