"Brilliant considering the work load of nursing..."

What I liked

I had discectomy on 24/10/11 and had a short stay on martlesham ward. I was very nervous prior to the proceedure and all the staff from health care assistants to consultants were supportive and reassuring. Being petrified of being under general anaesthesia the nurses and surgical team gave me a little more encouragement and were patient with me at all times.

On Friday 4th of November I suffered a believed csf leak and was re admitted to hospital. I was seen promptly in A & E and was on needham ward within 2 hours. Again the staff were accommodating and friendly to me.

I was especially impressed with my consultant who came in on his day off, leaving his family and personal commitments the next day to assess me. I felt that this shows a tremendous amount of personal responsibility. The consultant stated that he carried out the proceedure and he wanted to make sure everything was ok. The proceedure carried risks and I knew that anyway, however he made me feel safe, he advised me and briefed the nursing staff with care I required and a course of action.

Over the last 5 days the consultant has seen me everyday, sometimes 2-3 times. Nothing has been too much trouble even with his busy schedule. He had always been honest and to the point regarding my treatment and I appreciated this.

On the ward itself the nursing team work very hard, everything runs efficiently and with a smile. Ok so the food isn't fantastic but it's hot and well presented.

The cleaners clean all day long and their hard work shows.

What could be improved

Personally speaking I can't think of one thing.

Anything else?

The vast majority of NHS staff are hard working conscientious individuals who try to provide the best care they can with limited resources, budgets and funding.

I feel we should give more praise and concentrate on the hard work and success rather than failings.