"As positive an experience as having a colonoscopy..."

What I liked

I was referred to this hospital for a colonoscopy. I was nothing but impressed by the treatment I received. For a colonoscopy you have to go through some considerable pre-operative preparation, including fasting, and all the medication I needed arrived in ample time along with very thorough instructions of how to prepare and what to expect on the day. On arrival I was very impressed that there were signs in the waiting area asking people not to eat/drink as patients were fasting - a nice little touch of consideration for those being cared for.

I was nervous about the procedure but the staff took account of this and treated me with great care and dignity. Everything was explained throughly to me before the procedure went ahead, and I was constantly asked if I was ok or needed anything. Whilst a colonoscopy is by nature a little uncomfortable, I was well cared for and medicated to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. The facilities were extremely clean and well laid out with obvious consideration to the needs of the patients and staff. There was a problem with the cope initially but this was sorted out very quickly and my treatment was only delayed by 5 mins.

The post-op care was very thorough and I was not rushed out of the door but given time to recover along with tea, toast and even a slice of chocolate cake! Throughout the experience all the staff I encountered were utterly professional, kind, caring, considerate and made an uncomfortable procedure as comfortable for me as possible, and I was treated throughout with dignity. I was talked through the results and follow up procedures thoroughly and came away feeling very happy with the experience. I would recommend this Unit to others without hesitation.

What could be improved

Not much to be honest! The hospital was brand new and initially it took us some time to find the unit as buidling work is going on and signage not brilliant as a result. However, I am sure this is only temporary and therefore was only a minor irritation.

The Unit is mixed sex which is not ideal, and the post-op recovery area is perhaps where this could pose the biggest problem. However, you are warned in advance on the letters you are sent that this is the case so you can come prepared. It is not ideal, and if it could be changed then great, but it didn't bother me.

It would have been nice if my husband could have come and sat with me in the recovery area when he arrived to pick me up, but again I can understand why this is not encouraged due to space constraints and hygiene.

Anything else?

If you are going for a colonoscopy or endoscopy at this hospital please do not be too nervous. You are in excellent hands, and will be treated with great professionalism.