"Fast Track Critical Care"

Last October I was referred under the fast track scheme to the Urology Department and within 2 weeks I was being diagnosed with multiple scans & procedures. I was kept fully informed at all times by the Nurse Practitioners & Consultants. The diagnosis was TCC - cancer in one of my kidneys. All options were explained to me and my son (a GP) and early in November I was scheduled to have my kidney removed by laparoscopic surgery. I was admitted to the day surgery unit and found the staff very busy but still very attentive to my needs, with the appropriate reassurance prior to a serious operation. Similarly after my operation I was given first class care. Obviously in this type of unit the throughput is high, and my only general observation would be that at peak times more staff should be available. The team always coped but it was easy to see the pressure they were under! I have nothing but praise for my treatment in the Urology Department and the Day Surgery Unit. The skill of the surgical team is evident in that last week I was back walking along Curbar Edge high in the Derbyshire Peaks!!