"Praise for the staff in the a Chronic Pain Unit."

I am writing this because there is so much negativity about the NHS and about uncaring staff in hospitals that I want it put on record that I had a wonderful experience from start to finish at Maidstone Hospital. It started with a referral to the Chronic Pain Clinic on 11/02/2014. I was very impressed by my consultant and how he explained everything. It gave me a lot of confidence to proceed with the procedure. On the day, 21/03/2014, I arrived at 8am and was greeted and taken to my room. The doctor and nurse both came and carried out the necessary paperwork and both were friendly and professional, explaining everything and answering my questions. After a three hour wait, (I think I was the last one for that morning) I was taken into the theatre. The team were friendly and kind. There was a great atmosphere, with the doctor cracking a few jokes and the others joining in. Laughter filled the air. There was music in the room and the sun shining in through the windows. Then onto the procedure itself - at every stage, the doctor explained the type of sensation I should expect, one nurse kept her hand on my hand to offer reassurance, and the whole thing although a little uncomfortable, especially when the steroid was being injected, was actually not as daunting as I thought it would be. I didn't even need to be sedated! I believe the atmosphere created by the team of staff just prior to the procedure, gave me confidence in them and helped me to relax. On being wheeled out of the room, I actually commented that it was not the experience I was expecting in a hospital theatre, but that it was more like a party! It was the obvious friendly teamwork, the way everyone worked together, and respected each other, led on the day by a brilliant doctor. This team should be very proud of the work they do. If there is some sort of Hospital Award, then the entire team in this unit should be nominated for it. I hope you can pass onto them my gratitude and thanks for a wonderful experience.