"Colorectal Wards"

Firstly, I have to say that I've had an ongoing IBD for over 30 years, and now living with a terminal ileostomy. I have gained, over many years, detailed knowledge of my health issues and, since my last major operation in 2005, I've had to frequent NX, via A&E dept. several times due to post-op problems. I would like to express how grateful I am to most of the ward staff, who have a most difficult job to execute, in times when resources are usually low and daily pressures to treat patient are very high. But I also believe that some extra improvements could be made, in terms of leaving patients that are in severe pain, having to wait long periods of time before receiving any pain medication. I write from personal experience of this. I refer mainly to night staff, perceived inexperienced staff, etc. who either doubt you're in so much agony and/or simply prefer holding convivial conversations at the Nurses Station! And can't be bothered to attend the 'Night Nurse' button. In my case, re: June 2014, on two separate occasions, when I needed my Morphine, as prescribed earlier, it took 1hour+ before a night staff gave me the shot. This was despite me conversing with the nurse an hour earlier that I was in acute pain. If only some good communications were in place, e.g. nurse, "OK I'll be with you as soon as I've finished with my other patient, or... OK, I'll be with you in 10 minutes etc. That at least would be better than the receiving the 'silent treatment'. Unfortunately, when on is in severe pain you just want it gone! Moving onwards.... In particular, I would like to thank my main G.I. Surgeon, who has performed several major ops on me and, also taken the time to provide superb post-op care and attention towards me, both in the ward and outpatient clinics. Indeed, their reputation as an outstanding, competent, hard grafting Surgeon is well known. And any body who has the good luck to be their patient is in extremely great hands. My thanks extend to their faithful team too. In conclusion, this hospital has its problems, like many others, and I can only comment on my experiences. But I'd rather be treated here than some of those high-profiled and notorious places that made prime news headlines!...lol