"The ward was light, and airy with a view..."

What I liked

The ward was light, and airy with a view over the canal basin. I also liked not having to get undressed straight away and not being confined to my trolley.

What could be improved

I disliked not knowing where I was on the surgeons list particularly as I was told to be there for 1p.m. and then being the next to last which meant I didn't go through to the anaesthetist until 5p.m.

If I had been given some idea it would have helped relieve the tension somewhat!

Also with not having anything to eat after 7.30a.m. and only water until 10.30a.m. I had a headache. I was anxious about this because I am a person who cannot go without regular mealtimes as it leads to toilet problems. Ultimately this has proven to be the case as I ended up with compacted bowel which resulted in painful piles.

I expected to see the consultant after the procedure but didn't. I don't think anybody did. A nurse did see me but I was given minimum information. I asked about a biopsy otherwise I don't think that would have been mentioned. At this stage I seemed to be the last person left.

Anything else?

Pre-op assessment at Kendal seemed rushed at the preliminary stage as I wanted to ask some questions but was moved on to another nurse for blood tests and E.C.G.

Travelling to Lancaster is difficult as it is a 52 mile round trip from where I live. Also finding a place to park is always difficult. This is compounded by having to pay £5 for the privelege.Last time I visited the hospital it took me longer to travel through the city than it did to drive from home to junction 34. I feel penalised for living in a village 2 miles north of Kendal.