"Colonoscopy Day case patient with mental health..."

Anything else?

As outlined on a previous review I had a unpleasant experience on SRU as an emergency admission. The response given by RCHT was to spread the word regarding the availability of a mental well being nurse for those in need. I was due to have a colonoscopy on Wednesday at 1530 so decided to call the psychiatric liaison team to request the support of a mental health nurse, disappointingly none were available, I was instead asked to call my own CPN (not happy considering the previous response). I was completely overwhelmed with emotion and just needed someone to offer additional support so this knock back only increased my anxiety. However unknowingly the liaison team contacted my CPN who in turn spoke to me and passed on my mental health history to the colonoscopy dept. I was relieved when a staff nurse from the unit called me and asked if moving the appointment forward would help, this helped dramatically. Upon arriving on the unit I was met by a pleasant receptionist and handed over to a staff nurse. The staff nurse was fantastic and took that little extra time to listen to me and address any questions I had. I was then taken to the treatment room and passed over to a great chap (who I believe was aware of my condition) who offered great reassurance and some humor, there was also a female nurse on hand who monitored my obs and offered a hand to squeeze. Although I can't remember the names of these stars I do hope my thanks and recognition get passed back to them. The procedure went ok (I'm sure nobody like a camera inserted into them). The staff nurse was there again to offer support in recovery. I only wish my experience as a in-patient was like this. Although I believe more mental health nurses should be available, the staff done their best with their limited resources. 1 in 3 of us will experience mental health issues during our life time but when both physical and mental health issues conflict I believe the additional support is essential to aid recovery, this is why I hope this message will not be forgotten and perhaps stronger strategies be put in place to help others. Mental health should no longer be looked upon as a taboo subject but seriously implemented when considering a patients care plan.