"I had an accident in September ..."

What I liked

I had an accident in September 2007 whilst celebrating on A level results day. When I originally went to A and E following an adverse reaction that had resulted in food becoming lodged in my oesophagus, the staff were very helpful and I was seen promptly. Despite the fact that this was at around 3am, they quickly sent me for an x-ray, and when that showed nothing, I was immediately sent to see a doctor in the ear, nose and throat department. When that investigation again yielded nothing, I was given options about what to do next, which resulted in me being admitted to a ward.

It was clean, the nurses were very kind and helpful, even letting my mother stay with me as I was upset and in a lot of pain.

I was seen by a consultant a couple of hours later, who suggested an endoscope examination. Although I was warned that I might have to stay in another night as they might not be able to fit me in that day, they were able to put me on the very end of the list for that morning.

The investigation was quick and professionally handled, and the problem was quickly solved.

After allowing me to recover and making sure I could eat and drink again, I was discharged.

I have nothing but the highest praise for every department with whom I came into contact, especially the nurses who looked after me with such care and compassion when I was probably far from being an easy patient!