"Confidence that you are receiving the best of care"

I was really unwell and started my journey in A and E. This was a lengthy but thorough process. I felt welcomed, spoken to respectfully. I was not left in too much pain and I was given the information that I required.

During the early hours I was transferred to the Medical Assessment Unit, to a kind and considerate staff team again. They ensured that I had everything I needed especially pain relief. It was a quiet and peaceful environment although busy.

Late morning I was transferred to Ward 304. As soon as I entered the ward I was welcomed. It felt calm but busy but what I noticed most of all was the happiness and the professionalism of all the team. Lots of laughter between the team and also with patients.

The porters transferring me from one area to another, the Health  Care Assistants (HCA’s), the catering staff, nursing staff and the doctors could not have given me more care or more thorough investigation that was given.

What I observed was the friendliness towards each other, when they greeted each other by name etc. They had a passion about their work and obviously are in a job role that they want.

Very little chit chat about personal issues was heard and no negativity was heard against any patient. The reason I say this is that a previous hospital that I was cared for in did not make you feel welcome, more that you were troublesome rather than ill and in there for a purpose to make better.

The staff were stretched especially in A and E but this did not affect the care I received, if they were going to be a while, I was told and the reason given.

The ward was clean and smelled fresh. Lots of ventilation too. Beds were well spaced.

Patients were regularly checked upon including through the night, depending upon need. Pain relief was given once it was due and no unnecessary waiting.

 The food that was given was healthy and tasty and the menu offered covered a large range of needs and tastes. 

Overall I have found the Royal Derby Hospital a place where you can have the confidence that you are receiving the best of care, an accurate diagnosis and also the appropriate treatment. Well done and a big thank you for your excellent care, especially Ward 304.