"Wisdom teeth removal"

I have always been a very anxious person when it comes to anything medical, especially surgeries. After having a very bad experience in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary to have 1 wisdom tooth removed, this made my anxiety a lot worse. I was petrified before coming to Stracathro hospital to have the further 3 wisdom teeth removed. 

From start to finish during my time at the surgery ward at Stracathro Hospital I was treated exceptionally well. 

From arriving to leaving every member of staff were friendly, comforting, understanding and most importantly, listened to my anxieties. At no point were my anxieties brushed aside like they have been in the past. 

The consultant was very calming and gentle, very reassuring. Aberdeen Royal Infirmary had already made me afraid to have my bottom tooth removed before I had arrived at Stracathro Hospital, but this fear was alleviated by the consultant. I am so glad I listened to him. 

Due to my anxiety regarding surgery and anaesthetic I need to have a pre-med. While in ARI this was not listened to, this resulted in 12 attempts to insert a cannula before gas was then used to put me under. 

In Stracathro Hospital the anaesthetists were extremely understanding and had absolutely no issue regarding giving me a pre-med. They also gave me emla cream for my hands which was very reassuring. 

The hospital also brought my time forward for my procedure so I did not have to wait as long for my surgery. 

Both anaesthetists once through for my anaesthetic were very patient and calm. The lady explained everything to me before I went through, showing me the recovery area etc and which staff would be with me afterwards. Once through in the room with the anaesthetists, they were both very good at distracting me, chatting to me, and the lady held my hand, reassuring me as the cannula was done. This was done with one attempt which I was so relieved about. 

Once in recovery the staff there were so friendly, chatting to me and ensuring I was ok. I felt quite sore on one side of my face at this point and was immediately given more pain relief without and problems. 

All the nurses, student nurses and HCSW’s were very attentive and kind. They went above and beyond during my time there. Again I felt very sore after my surgery and received pain relief without any issues. 

I was in a ward on my own which made a huge difference for me while feeling so anxious before surgery. 

Each member of staff should be highly commended for the kind and caring way they treated me. They are an excellent example of person centred care and amazing team work. 

They would be an excellent example to other areas of healthcare. 

Although I will always be anxious during any hospital procedure or stay, they have given me so much reassurance that there are many kind people working in healthcare. 

Thank you all so much for making what could have been a traumatic experience for me a much more positive experience. 

I would be extremely grateful if this could be passed on to the all the staff on the surgical unit at Stracathro Hospital.