"Minor stroke"

My wife suffered a mild stroke and spent a night on Clyst Ward at the RD&E in June. The staff and her treatment on the ward cannot be faulted, though she needed very little care or attention.

The bedside manner and advice from the stroke specialists were spot on, though it is a quandary as to why their visits to the wards are still, after all these years, limited to the late afternoon, extending an overnight visit to 2 days and 1 night.

The follow-up with a specialist required a return journey to the RD&E and interruption to our regular day. The attendance of an active receptionist in the waiting room outside Clyst Ward was unnecessary, and frankly their manner of engagement and conversation made us uncomfortable. Not all people want to share their personal stories or experiences about the event, and it did not reduce our anxiety. Much more discreet to allow the waiting patients to exchange smiles, greetings or stories on their own accord.

The appearance of a trainee doctor and the rather public request that they sit in on the session with the specialist was also uncomfortable. The specialist was late for the appointment and chatted outside to a nurse for several minutes, then told them they won't be long.

The advice they provided in the appointment was excellent, but again, should have been limited to the three of us. We are also wondering why such sessions cannot be conducted over the phone in the comfort of the client's own home. It seemed a needless journey and uncomfortable experience for just a brief update.