"My day care surgery"

I arrived feeling extremely anxious, regarding my day care surgery at Stracathro. 

I was greeted at the door on arrival. Once shown to my bed, a doctor and anaesthetist both put me at ease. I was offered a general anaesthetic or numbing of my back so I could be awake. My opinion was listened to, as we had a discussion. 

I felt valued as a patient. The main consultant also introduced himself which I thought was a nice touch, and talked me through what would be done during the operation. 

The nursing staff were professional and friendly. Everyone put me at ease, everything was explained to me. For example :- expected time of minor surgery, what would happen after the procedure, and an approximate time. I could also be picked up by a relative. We live 50 miles away, so this information was valuable. 

When I went through to the operating theatre, the anaesthetists explained everything in simple terms, this also relieved any slight anxiety I had left. 

After my procedure, I was well monitored by the nursing staff. They also made me feel like a valued person and not just a number. 

After a period of recovery, approximately 2 - 3 hours, my lift home arrived.

The same doctor and anaesthetist gave me advice before my departure; they explained how the surgery went, and what to expect on my return home. The consultant also briefly gave all the patients a visit. 

I was pleasantly surprised by my speedy exit, written information, on my full procedure, doctor’s letter, medication needed for my home recovery. 

In the past, in a larger hospital setting, it would take hours to get the paperwork and medication to be released. 

When I received the appointment to go to Stracathro 50 miles away, my heart sank. 

However I would recommend Stracathro hospital to anyone that is offered this option. 

Our NHS needs our support as patients, and we need the support of the NHS. I was on the waiting list a very long time, however it was a minor procedure. I’m happier I went to a smaller hospital facility, they were friendly, professional and I was treated as an individual. 

Well done 👏  Stracathro staff. 

One happy customer.