"Positive birth experience"

I wanted to write in to thank the staff involved in delivering my baby at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

From when I first arrived in Maternity Assessment to when I was recovering in the ward with my new baby, the staff were professional, kind and supportive. Staff were great at ensuring my husband and I were kept in the loop, informed about the process and involved in decision making. This helped to reassure us during what was a long Labour and help to maintain a calm atmosphere in the labour suite.

In the Labour suite, I was very well looked after by excellent Midwives Briony and Emma. They were so professional and really supported me throughout the whole birth. The handover between the two midwives at shift change was thorough, professional and seamless. Both of the midwives were fantastic at communicating with both myself and my husband throughout the Labour and were great at encouraging and supporting as Labour progressed. 

I would also like to thank the anaesthetists, Sarah and later, Rachel,  and the anaesthetists‘ assistant, Guy. Again, the level of professionalism was exemplary from this team. The epidural process was clearly and succinctly explained by Sarah and Guy and very explicit instructions were given which were easy to follow, even when in the throes of Labour! Guy was a wonderful presence to have in the Labour suite as he had an easy and friendly manner that helped put me at ease with the procedure for an epidural. Thank you all. 

Following the birth, I was transferrer to the post-natal ward following a precious couple of hours with my newborn. Again, this was a very positive experience. I was in Ward 50 and found this ward to be welcoming and the staff to be very nurturing and helpful. As a first time mum, staff were patient and supportive. They were diligent in checking in with me and easily contactable when I needed to speak to someone. The healthcare assistants were wonderful at providing practical support with feeding, swaddling and bathing and this was much appreciated. 

I would particularly like to mention and thank Della the midwife who was so professional, helpful and nurturing. The level of care provided by Della was exceptional and she is a real asset to the hospital. Having had such a positive experience in the post-natal ward, it is clear to me that there is a real nurturing and supportive culture in place and this was embodied by Della. I’d also like to acknowledge Donna, the sister in charge of the ward, as the ward was well run and the nurturing culture was self-evident from the moment I was admitted to the ward. 

Whilst in the post natal ward, my baby and I were also checked by doctors, audiologists and physiotherapists. This was all very well organised and efficiently run. I was pleased to speak to Noreen, the physio, regarding post natal recovery. Noreen was very professional and gave me lots of practical advice on recovery. I was also very pleased to be offered a telephone appointment for the coming weeks to discuss physical recovery. This is a great idea and this proactive approach means that any potential issues can be pre-empted in a timely manner.

Thanks again to all at the QEUH and well done!