"Outstanding care provided within a spotlessly..."

What I liked

Outstanding care provided by A&E, SAU, Wards 8 and 6. As a registered nurse, now teacher in health; I was astounded at the high level of care, dignity and compassion shown to me in all areas of the hospital. The doctor and his team explained all the procedures/ diagnosis to me in detail and treated me with utmost respect. I felt safe and secure in all areas of the hospital.

Particular thanks to the staff on Ward 6- who efficiently sorted out my pain relief, and managed to extract blood painlessly from my reluctant veins and managed to make me laugh and made me feel valued, by keeping frequent checks not only on me, but all the patients in my area. The lovely kind carer, and the night nurse were wonderful.

All the area of the hospital were spotless. I was frequently asked about how much pain I was in, and it was swiftly acted upon by giving me pain relief. There is a real sense of teamwork among the staff in all departments, with camaraderie and genuine concern for all patients in the areas I was admitted to.

I was checked twice on discharge to ensure all cannulas were removed. The discharge procedure was exemplary, with careful checking that I understood the medication given, and follow up arrangements.

The porters who took me to Xray were kind and took care to offer me a blanket, in case I was cold. Although I was only having free fluids until discharge the lady who was in charge of breakfasts went out of her way to ensure I was given breakfast after the doctors rounds when I was then allowed to eat prior to discharge.

Fluids were frequently offered to me, and careful note of fluid balance was kept. My bed was always made with fresh clean linen and comfort rounds were frequent. If I called the nurses bells were answered within a reasonable time, and care was taken to ensure my call bell was within reach.

What could be improved

Due to the admission of an RTA in A&E which naturally took priority it was a while before I got pain relief. Staff were anxious to do this, but the demands placed upon doctors at the time prevented this from happening as quickly as it could. It meant that I was quite distressed by the time it was given, but that is not the fault of the staff- just the situation which placed extraordinary demands on the staff.

Anything else?

I hope this positive feedback will be relayed to the relevant wards and staff, to show them my gratitude for all the care given to me.

It must be increasingly difficult working in an environment where the public are only too aware of rights, and not always their responsibilities towards the service.

Speaking to staff politely, respecting visiting hours and other clients well being by not having excessive visitors, providing their own nightwear etc, and not using TV's or mobile phones loudly

around poorly patients is something the public can do to make their own, and others experiences and stay more comfortable.

Please let me know if there is any way I can continue to support the hospital as it is too valuable a resource to be wasted. Heaven help the residents of Stafford and surrounding areas if it was not providing such an excellent service.

Ingrid Lilley (Mrs.) BA (Hons); PGCE; RGN