"An excellent experience"

After a weekend of severe headaches I contacted my GP for an appointment, only to be told to call for an ambulance, which I did. We were given an approximate timeframe but subsequently called and asked if possible to make our own way to The Royal Cornwall hospital, which we did. 

Dropped off at the main entrance, I sat and waited whilst my husband parked. Clearly unwell, a member of the reception team immediately came over and got a wheelchair ready. We were directed to Minors and staff when out of their way to help at busy lifts. 

Registration was friendly and straightforward and when I was seen by the team they took w thorough history and explained what they would do next. Bloods kindly taken (always hard to find a vein) and the CT scan followed quite quickly. Someone let me know of a slight delay because of a wait for a test result and when I saw the team again there had been a shift change. The new team rechecked my history and explained that although all the results were good, given my age and how the headaches started, they would like to do a lumber puncture in addition. To my surprise, they hope to be able to complete it that evening so if clear I could go home. 

Shortly after a move to the treatment area (near the discharge lounge). I doctor was found shortly after to undertake the lumber puncture. I was given a clear explanation and the option of my husband joining me, which he did. Part of the explanation included that sometimes it is difficult to draw fluid – which it was in my case. A second doctor was called. Both maintained a relaxed and appropriately light-hearted approach whilst the second (and successful) attempt was made, and they ensured I was comfortable and confident throughout.  

There was quite a long wait for the results as lab teams were smaller in the evenings, but I was pre-warned of this and given progress updates. Refreshments and sandwiches were made available of us, and the other 6-8 people in the treatment lounge area. Throughout we noticed all patients were being regularly updated and helped as needed 

Given clear results – my bad headaches where just that – but staff also give me advice to follow up with my GP if they continued. 

An excellent experience and my thanks to all of the staff who helped me that day 

Keep safe