"Thorough competance, brilliant handling of the…"

I visited the A & E Department after a fall that led to abrasions on face, hands and legs. I was worried about bleeding since I have a recent provisional diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and have just been prescribed a potent blood thinner while waiting for further tests and a cardiology consultation. I was seen quickly. Since the bleeding was not serious I had to wait a bit to see a doctor. I was happy with that especially since a notice on the wall explained prioritisation. In due course the doctor took charge of my case. She made a very thorough assessment of my injuries and medical conditions that could have caused the fall. This included a CT scan that showed that I had a large cystic lesion on the brain that I was totally unaware of. After drawing senior A&E colleagues into the conversation the doctor arranged Brighton consultants in neurology and neurosurgery to review imagery and advise. While we were waiting for results, which came through very fast she arranged a cubicle in the clinical decision unit for my wife and I to wait. The doctor explained what was happening while it happened very clearly and in away that avoided anxiety about an unexpected condition as far as possible. Communication was outstanding throughout what turned out to be a much longer day than we expected and we left with our copies of the very clear reports that have gone to our GP. We remain amazed by what the A&E team and colleagues in other departments achieved within about 6 hours on a Saturday all with courtesy, respect (we are 81 & 82) good humour. Thank you very much.