"A & E visit with leg infection on 22 March 2015"

I developed a moderately serious infection in my left leg in an existing wound from a trip fall the week before. As a result my lower leg had become quite swollen and red.The wound required a fresh dressing and I needed to check that the anti-biotic treatment I was already on was appropriate. My visit to A & E in the early afternoon was handled competently by the reception staff and I was seen by the A & E Registrar within about 1.5 hours of arrival. The infected wound was assessed, a blood test was done and I was re-assured that the anti-biotic that I was on was appropriate. I was given advice, the wound was cleaned and dressed and I was discharged within a further 1.5 hours. The whole process took just over 3 hours which given the general busyness of the A & E department that weekend seemed very reasonable. Staff seemed to be working well together, the advice I received was clear and I was kept comfortable while in the treatment bay. My only concerns were twofold: first there was nowhere within the waiting area for me to keep my left (swollen) leg elevated (I was offered a wheelchair which I did not take). A separate foot rest or something like that would have been very helpful. Second the floor in the treatment cubicle looked as if it required cleaning/replacing. It was discoloured and stained. Overall this was a much better experience than a previous visit some two years before for another (different) leg injury. I would like to thank the staff and the team for their good care on this occasion. I would rate my experience at 4 out of 5 stars.