"Friendly staff all throughout ..."

What I liked

Friendly staff all throughout my procedure, from ward nurses through consultants to anaesthetists. Regular monitoring of patients, including pain checks (every two hours). Flexible with visiting when hospital gave incorrect pick-up times to my wife. Very quick turnarounds in regards to procedures, however this can backfire somewhat (see later).

What could be improved

Pain relief given for home use not satisfactory, even though whilst in hospital I was looked after very closely (none of the other patients seemed to have any pain, but were given more pain care to take home even if they didn't want it). Seemed as though the amount given was based on guidelines, rather than patient-focussed. Given contradictory advice as how to care for my self and wounds at home - unsure as whether to allow use of crutches, whether to elevate leg, when to change dressings, etc. Annoyingly dropped off surgery waiting list due to six month targets - rather than have me on the waiting list for seven or eight months, I was forced to be re-referred by my GP after six and begin the process again (pre-op, surgery date, etc).