"Great experience"

I am always quick to criticise NHS Lothian, but for a change I want to speak of an experience I had yesterday.

I was at the Day Bed Suite at the Western General Hospital here in Edinburgh and practically from my arrival it was really a pleasant experience. 

First thing I noticed is that the staff were plentiful unlike my previous experiences in other wards where there was a woeful understaffing problem.

I first met Marie who had a wonderful sense of humour and the time to share it while professionally doing her job. 

The treatment room staff were also great including the consultant who unlike many I have met was happy to answer my questions honestly and fully.

I also met a wonderful nurse whose name escapes me who told me how he had come to this country not able to speak English some 20 years ago and with much hard work I have no doubt was now a damn fine nurse.

The staff were able to do their jobs fully as the ward was not understaffed so they had time not only to get the never ending paperwork done but also had the time to talk to their patients, reassuring where necessary.  They were not having to race about just trying to keep on top of their workload.

So thanks to all.