"So very grateful for the excellent care I received"

In July and August I spent a total of 16 nights in ward 2F following complications of immunotherapy affecting my kidney function.

During this time I was cared for by the most amazing team of doctors, nurses, ancillary staff and students learning on the job.

The atmosphere on the ward was consistently warm and friendly. The ancillary staff who support the nursing team kept the ward spotlessly clean and tidy, and always had a smile and a friendly word for the patients. Vulnerable and lonely patients got a little extra attention whenever it was possible, hands were held, tea was made, and sometimes even songs were sung. Care was given in a way that you would like to think someone you loved would be cared for.

The efficiency and technical skills of the nurses was very impressive. As well as the monitoring machines and fluid delivery systems used in most wards, there are dialysis machines. These machines are very high tech and require a lot of experience and skill to use: a myriad of things can need adjusted to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. I watched as nurses relentlessly adjusted, cleaned, re-plumbed, tried again, asked for help and helped each other to ensure the best possible outcomes when things weren't straightforward, sometimes in the middle of the night. I listened as they reassured and comforted frightened, ill people. The commitment to the patients was evident in every action.

The patients in ward 2F are monitored very regularly with constant records kept of vital signs and fluid balances and regular blood tests. Charts were studied and constant adjustments to fluids and treatments were made. Doctors' rounds were daily, seven days a week. The staff changed, but the level of care was consistent. Despite seeing a a variety of doctors during my stay, every one of them knew exactly what was going on, what treatment I had had, and what the plan was. They also all listened to me and treated me like an intelligent person with an interest in my own health and recovery, and encouraged me to access my own test results online so I was able to track my own recovery.

The food in Crosshouse was chosen from a menu which had sufficient choice to suit most people's needs and could be adapted for others, It was delivered to the wards hot and was of a good standard. During my stay I saw staff support vulnerable patients at meal times in a way preserved their dignity and was very human. They chatted as they fed them and asked them how they wanted to eat their food. 

Being in hospital is difficult. You are in a strange environment, you are often feeling slightly exposed, and you don't feel well. Being looked after by the team on ward 2F made that experience as positive as it could be and I am so very grateful for the excellent care I received. Thank you.