"Remarkable. Excellent service."

What I liked

From my first consultation in July 2011, I was first offered an operation date in September 2011 together with dates for pre-op assessment and orthopaedic education class. Within a few days I was contacted with a new surgery date of 18th August 2011, also bringing forward the pre-op assessment and education class which I subsequently accepted. At the pre-op assessment and education class everything was explained to me in detail including the after care. My knee surgery went well as both the anaesthetist and the consultant came to see me prior to the procedure giving me a feeling of confidence. As I was awake during the operation (epidural) the team were very supportive and kept me relaxed at all times. Most of the after care nursing staff, especially the more experienced staff nurses, I found to be extremely effecient. One nurse in particular who gave excellent care. Whilst in hospital and also after my discharge the SWATT team were experienced, knowledgeable and gave me confidence to start my recovery period.

What could be improved

Over a weekend period I found that soiled and bloodstained bedlinen was left on the locker box by the bedside overnight. I found this to be unhygienic. Also on the day of discharge I had cleearance for discharge by the SWATT team at 9.30a.m. However, it was turned 2,00p.m. before the staff nurse came on duty who then managed to contact a doctor in order to sign for final release.

Anything else?

In essence I returned from a stay in Spain on 15th July 2011 and by 18th August I had a consultation with a dermatologist for the removal of a skin lesion under my left eye. This was performed on 25th July at Outpatients. Ten days later I returned to Warwick Hospital to have the stitches removed. Then a consultation for knee surgery which was performed on 18th August 2011. Both of these procedures carried out more or less within a month.