"CT colonography"

I had a CT colonography recently at NWP. The information given in advance was clear and helpful.

The staff were kind and considerate, especially the lady who met me and took me to the appropriate room.

All the way through I felt the procedure was clearly explained, and it was useful giving written information as it is hard to concentrate and hold onto the verbal information.

I found the procedure very painful - and i think that this should be clearer. I was retching from the pain and afterwards I could hardly walk. I was taken back to the changing rooms afterwards and then just left. It took me almost 30 mins to get changed due to the pain, but no-one came to check on me or ask if i was alright. All the staff knew I had come alone to the scan, so I felt very vulnerable.

My main concern however was that I was never given the option of having a female carry out the procedure - especially one as invasive as this. I would have requested this in advance and think this should be an option, even if it means a longer wait. I was uncomfortable asking once I was in the room, having already endured the preparation that you have to go through the day before.

Indeed there was not even a female in the room with me whilst the male doctor was doing the procedure. Only one woman breezed in, introduced herself and then immediately left the room. Surely it should be hospital policy that any female should be accompanied and not left alone with a male for invasive procedures?

Those are my 2 recommendations if you want to make things easier for future patients.