"Recent A&E Visits"

On a recent Thursday morning, I felt unwell and contacted NHS111, they recommended I attend my local A&E Department within the hour.

On arrival I had already been checked in by NHS111.

I saw the triage nurse after about 90 minutes, had blood taken and an ECG in another 40 minutes and then saw the doctor after about 30 minutes.

The doctor sent me for a chest X-Ray and while I was waiting came to find me with a prescription for medication.

Although the pharmacy was closed, the pharmacist was amenable to providing my prescription.

I finally saw the doctor again when my blood results and X-Ray were available.

I was discharged after about 4 hours with instructions to see my GP for further treatment.

About a week later, I had a panic attack regarding my blood pressure and again went to the A&E Department.

On arrival, the waiting room was pretty much full but I found a seat and waited to be called.

After about 40 minutes I was called by the triage nurse who checked my blood pressure, reassured me and suggested I see the on-site GP.

After a short wait the GP called me in and explained what was happening and suggested guidelines for me to use to assess whether my blood pressure was excessive.

I was discharged after about 2 hours.

Overall I received excellent service that has helped me through a difficult couple of weeks.

All members of staff were understanding and willing to spend the time to explain my condition and reassure me that it could be controlled.