"Day Surgery"

Today I had a laparoscopy and dye procedure at the Day Surgery Unit at The Princess Anne.

From start to finish, I couldn't recommend the staff enough. All of the staff nurses were friendly, helpful and caring. I felt that the consultations with both the Anaesthetist and Surgeon on the ward before the operation were very thorough and allowed for lots of questions and discussion. It was very helpful particularly to discuss with the Surgeon about options that may arise in surgery and exactly what I wanted to get out of lf it, and importantly, what I didn't want to be done. I felt listened to and reassured and very comfortable going into surgery. The Anaesthetist was great at putting me at ease, as well as the Theatre nurse and the next thing I know I'm waking up in recovery. My recovery staff nurse was lovely, explaining about the pain relief as they administered it and checking my breathing, and bringing me lots of blankets! I felt very well looked after. Then back on the ward the other staff nurses did a wonderful job of caring for me and the other ladies, toast and tea with a smile, and just their friendly nature made it a nice place to be. The surgeon returned to explain what they had found and could show me pictures to help explain it. I was very pleased with the outcome.

I was happy to stay as long as it took to recover - I felt in very good hands, and surprisingly relaxed given I'd just had surgery (that could also be the drugs!) My discharge was very thorough, with all the paperwork explained - not just sent away to read it, as I've experienced before.

Separately, I wanted to add, before my operation I saw two members of staff whose job it was to go around the ward checking the cleanliness - pulling out chairs and checking for dust under them, as well as under my bed and other communal areas. This was really good to see.

All in all, I would highly recommend this Unit to friends and family and would like to thank the staff on the morning shift today for a really positive stay.