"Staff working hard"

I took a limp down to A&E to get my foot looked at.

I agree walking wounded aren't generally priority number one, so I was happy to wait a good while. I was seen within 2 hours with plenty of other cases coming and going and 2  imminent emergency/crash team admissions so I was really impressed with the wait time.

No triage, the nurse took me into a cubicle where she was through with her questions and listened well to my answers. Both feet were examined and I was informed what she was looking at in each instance which helped me understand what each movement test etc was for. She was fairly sure of the diagnosis but wanted to x-ray my foot for certainty which I always find a sign of good practice. Not a long wait in X-ray at all, the radiotherapist was good in checking my details and instructing my positioning to get the scan done. This process was done quickly and efficiently. By this point staff at the front reception had been kind enough to let my OH come through the security doors and join me as I headed back to the desk to hand my x-ray confirmation.

My nurse recognised me and took me back in almost straight away, despite the area being busy. She had been and collected everything she needed for me and we arrived back in the original cubicle where she confirmed no damage on the X-ray. She was knowledgeable, efficient and open from the first point of contact and sent me away well informed and reassured. Thanks to all involved.

One thing to look into is the calling out of names in a chaotic and loud waiting area. If staff come out to this area to call patient names, please be LOUD, CLEAR and definitely REPEAT IT a few times (ESP.if no response as the paranoia of missing your name was causing commotion in itself) There was plenty of groups of people talking loudly, vending machines clattering, doors slamming/phonecalls etc that couldn't be heard over for even the better listeners and so some of the older patients/hard of hearing were questioning every member of staff that came out. Be.LOUD :)

I have no qualms saying the experience was excellent and for a point of use service, the manners and efficiency of all staff at each point was as good as private. You can only ever do the best you can with what you've got, Team GRI, you're doing an exceptional job! Thank you