"I came into QA as an emergency ..."

What I liked

I came into QA as an emergency through the emergency department (ED) and into Surgical Assessment unit (SAU) then onto E3 surgical Ward. I have nothing but praise for the professionals who work in these 'fast' paced environments. As a future health professional (I graduate in Jul 09) I am overwhelmend at the work load that the professional have during their daily working hours. They, particularly the nursing staff and health care assistants left me feeling exhausted just watching them get through their daily work load and continued patient care. I commend them for their hard work and dedication.

What could be improved

Mose staff on the wards. The patient to staff ration is good in SAU and ED but I felt there could be more staff in the main wards. It was my impression that the nursing staffs recations with patients was at times more that of 'fire fighting' with patients needs and wants and not the idea of patient care as it should be, a calm environment to enable the patient to recuperate and get well.

Anything else?

Stop all staff, medical and the like wearing high heeled shoes that make a noise! Nurses have to wear soft soled shoes so why not medics!