"Given the upmost respect and care"

I went up to A&E following a recent surgery for endometriosis and having a kidney infection that would not shift despite several rounds of antibiotics. I was sent to urgent treatment where I was seen promptly and concerns were raised due to my high heart rate and blood pressure. I was taken to majors and the staff acted quickly and provided me with outstanding care.

When I become upset due to feeling overwhelmed as I had not thought I would be taken to majors, the nursing staff comforted me and understood that it must have been a shock. The Dr explained what he thought was wrong and informed me of the tests that might be performed. I was cannulated and given IV antibiotics quickly. Within 45 minutes I was sent to a ward for further assessment as to what was happening. But thankfully the first iv antibiotics had bought my pulse down and blood pressure down, however they were still far too high. 

Once I arrived on Branston ward The staff  treated me with the upmost respect and care. They treated me with kindness and we're very understanding, listening to what had happened and the symptoms I had been experiencing. There was a long wait when I arrived in the department but I was not fazed by this at all due to the consistent up dates provided by the night team as to the wait and the attempts made to make me as comfortable as possible in the waiting room.

I was seen by the junior doctor who examined me thoroughly and listened to me attentively. When taking my past medical history she asked whether I had previously had a vaginal examination. I explained a traumatic incident from my past that resulted in me needing to have this done and how since then I had not had a smear etc. The Dr was extremely understanding and allowed me to lead the way when performing the examination. Talking to me throughout and making sure I was completely at ease and okay, making sure my anxiety stayed minimal and reduced the risk of me having a panic attack. This level of care was something I had not received before and I was extremely grateful to the Dr and nurse who performed the examination for there empathy and understanding. 

The Dr explained I was being admitted for IV fluids and antibiotics. The nursing staff allowed my partner to bring some personal belongings for me as I had not thought I would be staying in, and were welcoming and warm towards me when doing my admittance paperwork, putting me at ease throughout. 

Once I was admitted the staff were courteous when coming in at night time to sort my IV out and take observations. They kept me smiling throughout despite feeling unwell. 

The team made me feel at ease and were consistently attentive. The doctors (juniors and registrars) and nurses that looked after me were absolutely fantastic in keeping me informed about test results and what the plan was with my care.

On my day of discharge the deputy ward sister made sure I had everything I needed and was extremely caring towards me. Informing me that if I needed to I should come straight back up and gave me tips to help further fight the infection. 

Thank you to all the staff, nurses, doctors, HCA and house keepers for the care you gave and for helping me stay positive when I felt rubbish!