"My experience in the maternity unit Craigavon Hospital"

I was transferred form the Royal Hospital to Craigavon. I am a resident of the Northern trust so feel far from home but I have to say the care in Craigavon has been fantastic. My husband drove me from the Royal hospital to Craigavon so I didn't have to wait for an ambulance. I was glad that they allowed this as I didn't have to wait in the Royal. When I arrived I went to admissions and pretty much walked straight into a bed. The waiting times were good but I have heard from other friends and people that it has been difficult to get a bed on other occasions so I suspect I am just one of the lucky ones. 

The staff have all been brilliant. I feel that I can ask them anything and they will try their best to come up with an answer to your questions. They are very attentive and helpful as well. The doctors, nurses and midwives are all superb. I have a bit of a background story and all of the staff have been mindful of it and considered it when making decisions. 

The ward is clean and comfortable and the food isn't too bad. It is better than the food in the Royal. I am able to eat it and as a picky eater it is always a bit of a stress and difficulty to find something I like so this has been a positive. 

My only criticism is that staff seem to operate very much on policies and not on patients preference.  My baby had to stay in for an extra few days because she lost too much weight which I understand however I know that I would be capable of managing her from the comfort of my own home. I am now left wondering when I will get home. I feel I am stuck in hospital and am just awaiting the go ahead from the doctor. Some of the medical professionals say one thing and others say another thing and it would be helpful if they could come to a common conclusion to avoid raising a patients' hopes and then having them feeling disappointed when they do not get the green light to go home. This is a very minor criticism however as I am very pleased overall with the quality of care I have received.