"Nervous patient feeling calmed and cared about"

I attended day surgery for a removal of an osteophyte from my elbow. I can safely say that, without exception, every member of staff was friendly, personable and cheerful.

From the initial consultation and admissions process to the staff nurse who wheeled me out to go home, I was treated efficiently and professionally, and most importantly, as an individual. It was particularly reassuring to see a clearly busy department working in a very slick and organised way; I counted at least five instances when my wristband was checked against their records, for example.

Having experienced major trauma as a child I have become an acutely nervous patient, and I am especially grateful to the anaesthetist, Dr Pappin, and surgeon, Ms Conboy, who both took time to acknowledge my fears, explain procedures, offer options, and, significantly, not trivialise or undermine my feelings.

My heartfelt thanks go to all of the team.