"visit for a colonoscopy procedure"

I recently visited the endoscopy unit at the RBH for a colonoscopy. As this was my first experience i have to say i was absolutely terrified!

I arrived at 8.15 for an 8.30 appointment.

I was welcomed by the reception staff who confirmed my details and then sat in the waiting area. Within 10 minutes a nurse came and took me through to an assessment room where they took my obs and discussed the procedure. They explained what would happen and that i had a choice of gas and air or awake sedation. I just asked for what ever would knock me out!

The nurse explained that i needed to be awake as during the procedure i would need to move from my side, back etc to assist the doctor. The nurse put a canular in my arm ready for sedation but said i could try the gas and air first to see how i felt. They did stress that at any time during the procedure, if it was uncomfortable i could stop and op for the sedation. I went into a small theatre type room and was met with the most wonderful, caring, understanding nurse i have ever met. They reasured me and explained exactly what would happen. I started using the gas and air, and although i was aware of what was happening i felt nothing! I was reassured tnroughout and every step was explained to me. I didnt need the sedation and after 20 minutes the whole colonoscopy was over including biopsies!

Please pass on my thanks to a wonderful, outstanding team.

The best bit of all.... a letter 2 weeks later saying all was well and clear. I worried myself sick for 5 weeks and cannot believe how easy this was. Hopefully if you are going in for a colonoscopy this will help in some way to reassure you. Wonderful department! Wonderful staff!