"Overall,OK but could be much better just with a..."

What I liked

Own room which was comfortable, the bed was really good and there were plenty of bathrooms on the ward all of which were clean if not stocked. Day room was good, you could help yourself to tea and coffee. Really appreciated the staff that went "that little bit further" in terms of their interactions. Theatre staff: from the jolly porter who took me down to the staff team in the pre-op room. The op was a success so big thanks to them too. Discharge was a dream, absolutely no hanging about, which suited me fine!!!!!

What could be improved

TLC.I was asked by a family member (a senior nurse) whether the staff were caring or indifferent and sadly, I felt most were the latter.They did what was expected, routine checks etc. but with few notable exceptions was it anything more.The kindest words was from the lady that brought the tea round who seeing me struggling to sit up at one point said "Let me help you" and she did.Such a simple phrase and action but so, so appreciated after a major op.Little thought for holistic care and while I was invited to ask questions, often I needed to be given the information as the experience was quite overwhelming.I found out far more by researching myself and joining a support group which also highlighted the gaps in the experience at KCH.Night times seemed to be very understaffed and challenging for those staff on the ward, day times much less so, therefore the lack of interaction and basic care less excusable.Simple things like making sure the toilets all had soap (it took 2 days of asking). Locking away your valuables. "Samples" done, then not collected for hours. This was not nice particularly during visiting times.

Anything else?

I fully appreciate that some patients are awful, rude and demanding but I believe, the majority of us are like me, appreciative and fully paid-up fans of the NHS, having made little demand on the services over the years but highly vulnerable when we do need the service and in need of care.