"Care following Laparoscopic Hysterectomy"

Whilst huge thanks must go to the doctor and colleagues for surgery that went well, I want to give particular thanks to the excellent care I received from the nursing staff in both recovery on the day case unit and later ward D47.

The day case unit was hectic and the nursing staff were under pressure. I could see what they were dealing with, including me. I was struggling to do the things needed for discharge, so was on the ward for most of the afternoon. The care I received was second to none - responsive, attentive, helping me to help myself, answering my many questions, making sure my pain was managed. Dealing with many other patients in varying states of repair, pain and attitude with an abundance of kindness and cheeriness. The room held a positive atmosphere.

When the decision was made that I wasn't well enough to be discharged. I was quickly and seamlessly transferred to ward D47.

Ward D47 held the same hectic pace but this didn't stop the nursing team providing an excellent level of care with the same approach as the day case unit.

Under what seems like a huge amount of pressure, the nursing staff provided excellent care. I do worry though that we are pushing some of these brilliant people to the brink. We must make sure wards are sufficiently staffed and nurses get sufficient breaks so they are fit, well and coping with the stresses of the role.