"An amazing experience"

I attended the day case unit for surgery in the wake of the COVID-19 situation. Prior to attending the hospital, I received two tests to ensure I was clear for COVID, I was also screened for a high temperature prior to being admitted onto the ward. I am a very nervous person, who has never had surgery before but I do have underlying health conditions. Due to this, I was slightly concerned that they may be exacerbated by the general anesthetic/also the stress of the surgery on my body.  

I can honestly say that it was an amazing experience. From arriving early and being welcomed by a lovely receptionist, who despite wearing a face mask still radiated pure kindness and immediately put me at ease with her lovely sense of humor. The nurses were so kind and caring, paying great attention to detail, and constantly checking how I was. This was pre and post-surgery, constantly making sure I wasn't in pain, and my other conditions were managed. My privacy and dignity were maintained throughout the procedure by the nurses and all members of staff, with heartwarming compassion towards not only me but the other patients on the ward.

The two anaesthesiologists that helped choose the right sedation for me. The level to which they catered the drugs to my every need and ensured that anything I was concerned about was addressed, also giving me extra anti-nausea drugs which meant when I woke up I felt amazing and was in disbelief that I had even had surgery. My consultant and the students supporting her were also amazing and really kind, explaining things to me and ensuring I felt ok constantly, despite being extremely busy. Also, the male nurse who was in recovery bay 2 and the male porter who moved me back into the other bay were true gentlemen and the best way to wake up from surgery with their funny jokes and cheerful nature.

Overall, I am blown away by the kindness of the staff on the ward and want to assure anyone who is going in for day case surgery that you are in the best hands possible, the staff will go the extra mile and help you with anything you required. Some of the sweetest and kindest people I've ever met, true heroes of the NHS and lovely people. Can't thank you all enough