"I knew I was in good hands"

After a lengthy wait (over 3 years) I was finally admitted to the Royal Alexandria Hospital for a total hysterectomy.  My surgery was carried out by Dr Naheed who came to see me in the morning before the surgery, after the surgery and further during my 2 day stay.  I felt that she was very open, honest and reassuring throughout the process, I knew I was in good hands and indeed she has done an incredible job, particularly given the surgery was more complicated than was initially anticipated.

I was admitted to ward 32 in the morning and found the nursing staff to be kind and reassuring.  Throughout my 2 day stay I was well taken care by Joanne and the rest of the team, including the amazing students.   Another staff member who was incredible was the nightshift worker, I don't remember her name but she was so kind and reassuring and nothing was too much trouble.  I also absolutely loved when the lady came with the tea and digestive biscuits.  It's such a small thing but it really makes you feel cared for.

After surgery I was taken through to inpatient theatre recovery, where I was taken care of by Nurse Denise and her team.   A nurse called Angela was assigned to look after me and whilst I was heavily sedated following surgery and my memory is extremely vague, I do remember feeling safe and cared for by Angela who provided so much warmth and reassurance to me.  

I also remember being visited by the Anaesthetist and again the care, compassion and reassurance that he provided was second to none.  All in all my experience of surgery at the RAH, which leaves you feeling incredibly vulnerable and scared, was outstanding.  Every member of staff who I came into contact with, from the Anaesthetic Nurse who walked me into surgery, the Anaesthetist and all of the theatre staff, the staff in inpatient theatre recovery, all of the team on ward 32 and of course Dr Naheed, were caring, compassionate, reassuring.  I felt informed throughout the process and my stay.  I feel very grateful for the level of care that I received during a very vulnerable time.