"The most valuable service we have open to us"

I was admitted via A&E for surgery on my tibia plateau and was operated on the following day by Mr Raza. The operation itself was explained in detail by Mr Raza in a way I could understand and he spent significant time before and after the operation answering my question and explains the follow up with me. He really put me at ease and his bedside manner was second to none.

Since being admitted to the ortho ward B23 every single nurse, student nurse,  auxiliary and health care assistant I interacted with were fantastic. They were clearly focused on my care and wellbeing, as well as the other patients, but clearly operating in difficult conditions and seemed understaffed. However, every time I asked a question, it was answered politely and whenever I asked for something, it was done quickly. Every interaction I seen them have with other patients was exactly the same and I must not sure how they manage it! 

The student nurses on the ward were also fantastic. Jayna specifically is amazing, she spent time asking me about my pain and took it upon herself to locate a doctor to more adequately deal with my pain management. She also referred back to previous experience as a physio’s assistant to try and help me better prepare for the mobility assessment and really pit my mind at ease. She checked in on me repeatedly and really made me feel safe and at ease. Colin also was a huge help during the day after my operation when I felt a bit uneasy and sore, he made me feel at ease and tried to make me as comfortable as possible.

There are too many other nurses  to mention by name (frankly I lost track as there were so many over the three days + pain medication) but Sylvianna, Kirsty and Kirsten were also amazing. They helped me get discharged, Sylvianna taking on board that I had a newborn at home and pushed to get things done quickly, then helping pack my bags and get me home safe, arranging a porter to take me down stairs. (Thanks Hamish - an absolute gentleman).

The physio team were also so professional and focused on helping me get home. The student Kyle particularly was great as was the lady he shadowed, whose name I cannot recall. However, both were brilliant. 

At a time when the NHS is criticised at every turn I am left feeling like this is the most valuable service we have open to us and the people who work in it are vastly unappreciated. I only hope the right thing is done for nurses, as it is clear to me it is them who keep the wards running!