"Ward 4"

I recently had a kneecap resurfaced in Heatherwood, staying in Ward 4 from Friday till Sunday. I have multiple allergies and a bad reaction to opium-based painkillers, so was a little apprehensive. But everyone was wonderful, caring, professional and with a lively sense of humour and good communication skills - from the cleaners through the catering staff to nurses, health-care assistants, doctors, anaesthetist and theatre staff. I have had many hospital stays, both privately and on the NHS, and without a doubt this has been the best NHS care I have received - ever. And on a par with the best private hospitals. The anaesthetist took the time to talk with me about pain relief and make suggestions, and said she 'liked a challenge'...! I was confident that all would be well. The spinal anaestheia was so much better than general anaesthesia - I was not offered that two years ago when the same knee was replaced privately. Once back on the ward, the nurses and health-care assistants were wonderful. Nothing was too much trouble. Every time I said 'thank you' they responded with 'you're welcome' or 'I hope that solves the problem'. I was offered pain relief, tea and sympathy in the night when I couldn't sleep! The food was adequate (although not wonderful and the vegetables were overcooked) but the catering staff always made suggestions and were prepared to wait while people came to decisions, and there was a good variety. Altogether an excellent experience and I am glad to leave this feedback. More power to your elbows Ward 4 and Heatherwood in general - you are showing what is possible!