"Caudal epidural"

Admitted as a day case for repeat caudal epidural , receptionist polite and friendly and as not busy day allowed my sister to sit in day room and wait with me . Soon collected by very smiley polite healthcare assistant who checked my personal details and performed observations explaining each action before doing so . Shortly after seen by sister who again checked details and confirmed allergies . Collected a while later and taken to treatment room , different consultant to last time who shook my hand and introduced himself . Explained clearly the procedure , the risks and possible complications before asking me to sign consent form .

Nurse assisted me into treatment table and ensured I was comfortable before procedure commenced as important to lie still . Consultant was teaching a colleague and explaining to him each stage of the procedure as he expanded to me , could clearly see images on image intensifier.

Procedure done in a different manner to previously and can only assume drugs injected slower as I didn’t experience the heavy pushing skewering to the table as on prior treatments .

Assisted to roll onto trolley and return to room , told I needed to lie on my back for time being and nurse returned a short while later and  helped me sit up and asked if I would like a hot drink and returned promptly with a pot of tea , said I could let my sister know I would be ready to leave in 30 mins .

From leaving home to returning a total of 3 and a half hours .

Everyone without exception was polite , smiling and introduced themselves , winter pressures are affecting the hospital but no evidence of that in this instance .