"Exceptional"

I was a patient on ward 3E having undergone a total hysterectomy/ oophrectomy/ rectocele repair- extensive abdominal surgery to say the least.

My consultant/surgeon & theatre staff where amazing, speaking to me just prior to surgery to go over everything and when arriving at theatre the 2 anaesthetists upon seeing how nervous I was were fantastic. Follow up observations by doctors on the ward were thorough, willing to answer questions and take the time to talk through what had happened.

The care I received by ward staff was exceptional, they were well informed of the surgery I had undergone and as such were able to provide the support and assistance that I required. Ward staff worked their socks off and despite being constantly on the go remained approachable , friendly and professional. The level of care I received was second to non, from the catering staff through to the ward sister. The ward was spotlessly clean and it was apparent that all the staff took great pride in their roles. The student nurses were encouraged and supported by more experienced staff who are quite simply exemplary role models.

My only issue was that despite being an all female ward there were unfortunately several occasions when the male partner of a fellow patient simply chose to ignore visiting hours, turning up and leaving whenever he chose.. I would have some understanding if this was due to work or other commitments but it wasn't. On one occasion, almost 2 hours after evening visiting had ended I was attempting to fix my catheter to find him stood at the end of my bed!

When after several instances over a 4 day period this was pointed out to staff they did respond immediately, and I suspect they probably not fully aware due to being so busy. However I mention as it was a significant problem for me, given the nature of my surgery & subsequent difficulties moving around it was embarrassing when trying to get myself out of bed wearing a nightie to have him turn up when I was in an unflattering position !