"Excellent NHS Dermatology workers"

I approached my GP about a mole.  His referral led in only 4 weeks to a consultation (punctual to the minute!) with a Lead Nurse Brenda, who reassured about my referred mole but very amenably agreed (or may have also intended) to look at others. Spotting one, which she explained  so clearly and fully as causing her concern, she then discussed further action. She immediately checked availability and booked me in for excision (for pathology examination) the next day.

With no waiting, I met Rose, a senior nurse (and her assistant nurse Angela) who fully discussed the proposed action for my consent, explaining the reasons and risks with complete openness to questions.  I was then made as comfortable as possible on a padded table, suitably disinfected and draped, then carefully given local anaesthetic jabs before excision of a 1.5 cm mole on my back.  Throughout the procedure Rose explained actions and actively listened to my feedback and questions.  She gave great preparation instruction for aftercare and explained subsequent protocols.  Both also chatted generally, including me in conversations, but throughout showed great awareness of actual or potential discomfort. 

With such excellent professional treatment and care, I hesitate to make any further comment, but the facilities in which these professionals worked could be improved. Having to lie face down for about 40 minutes became uncomfortable, largely because of a pillow and square end to the table so my arms were locked above the cricked - up head.  It surprises me that an open face table as for massage was not used, where face and arms are not propped up but can be eased. It also avoids laundry expense to a pillow.  The workers suffered frequent distractions due to the office/ treatment room being used to store shared resources.

I would like Rose , Angela and Brenda to be aware of how grateful and impressed I have been with their warmth, openness and professionalism; hence this contribution which I give at the invitation of Rose and Angela.