"Excellent emergency and follow-up service"

I was taken to the Accident and Emergency department by my partner following what seemed to be a TIA episode.

The staff in casualty were incredibly reassuring, professional and proficient. I had a blood test, brain scan, chest X-ray, ECG and assessment by the casualty officer within a couple of hours since admission.

My presentation was unusual in that I did not have any of the neurological signs one would expect with a 'mini-stroke' or TIA.

I was given the all-clear to go home after just 3 hours and given an appointment the following day to visit the Stroke Unit.

I was duly called at 9.30 the following morning to confirm my appointment at the Stroke Unit at 11.30 that day.

The receptionist was highly efficient, despite a very busy outpatients clinic and I saw the specialist nurse and consultant within an hour. After a thorough examination and review of all test results, it was decided that I had not had a TIA but more likely a less common TGA (Transient Global Amnesia) which would account for my symptoms - or rather lack of symptoms apart from a complete memory blank of what had happened during the previous morning.

This was a huge relief and I cannot thank the staff at DCH enough for their excellent service, care and attention.

Thank you all. Sarah Paterson