"I attended the Day Surgery Unit at..."

What I liked

I attended the Day Surgery Unit at Ashford for a hernia repair. I had never been in hospital before and was extremely nervous but all the staff I came into contact with went out of their way to explain what would be happening and did their utmost to put me at ease. I cannot fault any of them. The ward was clean. The staff were professional, friendly, courteous and efficient. It was a busy day but the nurses remained calm and took time to update me on what was going on and who would be coming to see me. They also all seemed to have a good sense of humour which also made me feel more comfortable in the surroundings.

What could be improved

The only thing I found difficult was the waiting. I was asked to come in to the unit at 11 a.m. and did not go down for my op till just before 2 p.m. I know this probably can't be helped but being a nervous patient, I would have preferred a shorter wait!

Anything else?

The NHS always gets a bad press but my experience did not bear this out at all.