"Everyone involved could not have been any better"

Having had an extensive consultation with Dr Thyne who was so understanding of my situation and thorough exploring options for getting to the bottom of my problems, I was fitted in for exploratory operation a few days later.

I had to attend day surgery at Queen Margaret Hospital for a hysteroscopy and D&C under general anaesthetic. Having never had to attend hospital personally before and never having an anaesthetic I was anxious and emotional upon arrival.

My care nurses, Helen and Zoe were so supportive showing empathy, patience and understanding of how I was feeling. They made sure I understood I could ask questions and was clear on what would happen. Throughout the day they regularly checked up on me, making sure I had a warm blanket and magazines to read to pass the time.

I met the anaesthetist before my op (Jenny I think her name was) and once again no question was too silly and she took time to put me at ease over my concerns around what to expect.  The pre op team of Jenny's were all excellent, so friendly, efficient and they helped take my mind off what was about to happen. Immediate aftercare nurse (unfortunately I didn't catch her name) was also so caring making sure I wasn't in pain, getting me a hot blanket, painkillers and water.

My consultant Dr Mckinley and her colleague (again didn't catch her name) visited me both before and after surgery, going over what would happen and next steps with me.  Both were excellent and so professional.

I have to say that everyone who was involved in working with me throughout the day could not have been any better.  At all times I felt human, that I mattered and nothing was too much trouble for any of the staff.

My only slight criticism, if you could call it that, was in relation to my pre op call.  Whoever called seemed to think there was confusion over calling me (not sure why as I was told to expect a call), they were initially uncertain which location I was to go to for my operation which didn't give me great confidence, particularly as given it was only a couple of days between referral and operation I knew I would not be receiving any letter confirming my appointment.

I asked if I needed to bring anything and was told no and was not given any other guidance other than no food/drink from midnight night before. I did my own online research before attending for my op so I knew to remove nail varnish, not wear jewellery etc. however it became clear that I should have brought a dressing gown, slippers and something to pass the time like a book. I had all these things in a "go" bag which I had left with my husband in case something went wrong and I got kept in, but not taking it in with me at the outset was a mistake.  Fortunately nurse Helen told me not to worry and sorted me out with a few things to see me through which I appreciated.  I therefore feel more information should have been provided on the call regarding preparing for and attending the hospital for surgery.