"My 8-year old daughter was rushed ..."

What I liked

My 8-year old daughter was rushed int YDH with suspected meningitis (although it turned out to be appendicitis!!).

From the time we got there the nurses & doctors were very friendly, explained everything to my very frightened daughter and really respected the fact that she was very nervous about needles etc.

The doctors and nurses were also good at explaining what was happening/going to happen to her when she had her appendix out. They had a box there full of items that are used in an operation and went through this with her so that she was comfortable about going to the theatre.

Ward 10 was extremely clean and there was a communal area where the children could play with toys, do some craft or play with x-boxes/playstaions etc.

What could be improved

It was midnight when we got to the hospital, but it still took an hour in A&E before we were seen! This wouldn't have been a problem if it was me or if we didn't think there was anything really seriously wrong with my daughter.

Also the parent's room has been turned into doctor's offices, which means there isn't anywhere to go for a break. This doesn't matter if your child is only in for day surgery or for a night or two. However, if you had to stay there for an exended period then that it would be nice to have somewhere where you can go and gather your thoughts, make a hot drink and maybe have a shower.

Anything else?

I really would reccommend the YDH to any parent who's child has to go through any type of operation.