"Excellent Care of Patient and Family."

My mother was cared for on Ward 8 at Wansbeck General hospital for the last 3 weeks of her life. Mum had pneumonia and kidney failure. I wish to express our grateful thanks to all the staff on ward 8 who looked after our mother during this time. As a family, we were allowed open visiting as mum was so poorly and were able to pop in to see her between our shift patterns as well as our time off. During the last 2 days of mums life, we were given the privacy of a side room which allowed us all to be with her around the clock. We were allowed to participate in mums practical cares such as washing and positional changes. ( Two of us are also Healthcare professionals). You can never under estimate the value of being asked "is everything OK ?" "Can we get you anything?" or "would you like a cup of tea?" We were asked these questions often and we appreciated that. The night staff in particular were very supportive and kind. Mum passed away peacefully surrounded by both of her sons and her 3 daughters at 02.45 on 26th September 2014. Even after her passing, we were allowed time to stay with mum for as long as we liked. It was so hard to say goodbye and leave her. Ward 8 staff were kind, respectful and courteous to our entire family and we thank them for that. Our mother was treated with dignity. The only disappointment we had was with the Oasis Room. (nothing to do with the fantastic team on ward 8) My brother went to use the room to get a couple of hours sleep, but the floor was soaking wet in the shower area, there were dirty towels all over the floor, the toilet tissue dispenser was on the floor and blankets were left on the floor . There were empty and part empty drinks cans lying all over the room, and takeaway fast food cartons lying around. He tried to have a snooze on one of the reclining chairs but a family of 9 people came in and put all the lights on and proceeded to eat kebabs and pizzas making a lot of noise even though it was obvious someone was trying to sleep. They made no effort to be quiet or dim the lights when it was evident someone was trying to rest. ( this was about midnight). My brother gave up and left the Oasis room . We did not attempt to use this room again. Once again, many thanks to the entire team of staff on Ward 8.