"Confidence in their job shone through"

I was referred to the BGH by my doctor when I went to see them with an infection which wasn't responding to antibiotics.  It was thought I had been bitten by something which became infected then became four abscesses.  I was seen at the A & E  on arrival, my husband was with me and we received a nice welcoming welcome.  We waited for about 20 minutes which was much quicker than we expected. I was seen by a Junior Doctor who was very pleasant and did all they could to try to comfort me as I had to have the abscesses lanced.  They also went to speak to a consultant who came to see me with a doctor from the ENT.  The consultant and the doctor from ENT were so kind and sympathetic as I was clearly distressed with the pain.  I was admitted to Ward 7 as I need to have intravenous antibiotics for a few days.  I was welcomed by a nurse called Jacqui who was refreshing her nursing skills after having time out of nursing for a few years.  She was absolutely amazing with such a kind, calm manner. Nothing was any trouble for her.  I was attended to constantly and felt safe in the care of such caring, skilled nurses.  Their confidence in their job shone through which,from a patient's point of view, is so important and re-assuring. 

I was in Ward 7 for one night and Ward 16 for the second night.  A nurse called Louise asked me if I would mind going to Ward 16 as there were patients coming in to Ward 7 and my bed would be needed.  I didn't hesitate as I was feeling guilty as it was, taking up a bed for an infection in my ear when people with much more serious conditions than mine could benefit from being in Ward 7 and the care of these wonderful nurses.  I told Louise this and she said no not at all, you are just as important.  It was so nice of her to say this.

The staff in Ward 16 were amazing too.  I would also like to mention how much I enjoyed the food during my three day stay.  It amazes me how all these dishes can be made to each individual's request and reach each and every patient so hot and fresh.  I have never tasted broth soup like it, it was delicious, as was the beef casserole and creamed rice pudding.  Just the way my mum used to make it years ago.

I would like to thank the head of the catering department for this and say a big 'well done'.  I would also like to add that this is the first hospital I have ever been in which has the luxury of a discharge lounge.  I only moved to the Borders last summer.  All staff members in the discharge lounge were so caring, friendly and helpful too.  I only had to wait about 15 minutes for my discharge letter and medication to take home with me.