"Such a professional and quality patient focused service"

Review of recent hospital appointment

I recently attended the Nightingale hospital Gastroenterologist clinic for an Endoscopy following an urgent referral via my GP. I was sent an appointment within 2 days of the referral and provided with useful information about preparing for the procedure, about getting to the hospital and the park and ride bus service. I was seen within a week which was such a relief . I was anxious about getting to the appointment on time and finding my way to the Clinic, however at the entrance a friendly volunteer worker greeted me and my husband and told us where to go. A friendly male worker took me through the initial assessment process and put me at ease. After a short wait I met another friendly female worker who completed the admin form online with me. I had another short wait. The unit was bright, calm and made me feel at ease.

The nurse who carried out the Endoscopy (Katie) was very professional and answered my queries. She took a full history from me and then explained the procedure and the risks before obtaining informed consent. She instilled confidence and I felt very reassured by her. She had an assistant (Emma) who helped me get comfortable sitting on the treatment couch etc. There was a TV type screen to the side of me and Katie explained what she was going to do. She gave me anaesthetic via a spray in my nose and my mouth. She then very carefully inserted a tube through my nostril to and into my oesophagus. I felt a bit of pressure and needed to swallow as it went down my throat however it was only slightly uncomfortable at one time. I was so relieved that Katie was able to take some photos and explain what she was seeing. The procedure was soon over and I was given a report of the findings. Katie was able to contact Dr Kennedy- Lead clinician for advice almost straight away and a day or so later I was referred for a CT scan to inform further treatment interventions.

I found this whole experience really reassuring. Thank you all for such a professional and quality patient focused service.