"Outstanding care in Ward 57"

I have just taken my father home after a longer than anticipated 16 day stay in Ward 57, and wish to publicly praise the care he received. I spent between three and five hours on the ward on most days so had plenty of opportunity to observe staff interaction with Dad and other patients.

Personal buzzers and drip alarms were promptly attended to, as were requests for fresh gowns/bedding etc after unavoidable post-op related 'accidents'.

My Mum was stuck at home in the Borders (she doesn't drive) and I'm in Glasgow so was unable to fetch her in for visiting very much - she phoned the ward every day, more than once on the days Dad was least well, and always found the staff friendly, polite and helpful. Not once did she feel that her requests for updates were a nuisance.

In addition to the excellent care afforded to Dad I witnessed staff taking time to assist elderly patients with their meals, chatting to them as they fed them at a natural speed - no shoving the food down patients throats so that they could crack on with the next duty.

The ward was spotless and with a relaxed atmosphere. The duty doctors were generous with their time and explanations when requested.

Well done and heartfelt thanks to every single member of the team including the non-clinical staff.