"Excellent treatment, the best ..."

What I liked

Excellent treatment, the best I've experienced so far on the NHS after being in 4 different hospitals in South London. When I was daunted by the new medication the doctors took the time to discuss it thoroughly and all possible side-effects were explained, I was monitored closely during my stay and always offered pain relief when needed. The moment they noticed something was slightly amiss they investigated it without delay. When I expressed concern over a matter they followed it up directly, I was never overlooked by doctors on ward rounds and the x-rays, examinations and ultrasound I had were always carried out quickly. The ward I was on was extremely clean, toilets and bathroom facilities always disinfected regularly, bedside phone and cabinet cleaned regularly. Out of all the staff I'd say almost all of them were lovely, thorough and attentive, with only a section of the night staff letting the side down, but in all they were a credit to the NHS. I will be returning to KCH for my outpatient appointments and I'm even transferring my child's care from another hospital to here.

What could be improved

I hate to complain but the only problems I had with my entire stay were with the night staff, which is a real shame since it is only a few that let the others down. Some of the night nurses had a serious attitude problem, a tendency to be curt and impatient, they ignored some of the buzzers and on three separate occasions KICKED MY BED TO WAKE ME UP FOR BLOOD PRESSURE OBS. I would also like to know if it is acceptable for the night staff to order in and eat takeaway food at the Nurse's Station?? Myself and other patients on the ward saw them doing this on occasion and found it highly unprofessional. Also, the noise definitely needs addressing- talking/laughing loudly until 2am, not turning off the ward lights until MIDNIGHT?

Anything else?

Patronising and rude attitude of some of the night staff needs to change drastically. Civility costs nothing, as I said it's a shame because it's was an otherwise faultless convalescence.