"Trent Cardiac, Short stay review"

I was admitted to the Trent Cardiac short stay ward in preparation for a pacemaker being fitted; from the outset, the staff were welcoming and good humoured though not at the expense of professionalism: all knew what to do and when to do it. At the appointed time, I was taken to theatre and was again greeted by the staff who were all well drilled in their predetermined tasks. Again, there was a good natured atmosphere which went a long way in assuaging any anxiety. Throughout the procedure I was kept informed of progress by the cardiologist; there was some discomfort but absolutely no pain. It was all over in about 40 minutes, the wound is healing well and there is minimum scarring. Top marks to all concerned. Following the operation, and back on the ward, I was taken through what and not what to do by the physiologists who also set the heart rate of my new pacemaker using what appeared to be a laptop computer (some of the guys from the rugby club wanted to know the password but I respectfully declined to give it them). The cardiac doctor then came to see me to explain how the procedure went and itemise any subsequent medication. Many thanks for a job well done to all concerned. Neil Gilbey