"Outpatient Clinic - Gastroscopy"

I attended for a gastroscopy on 30th July - was very nervous!

Could not imagine the camera going down my throat and wondered how I would be able to manage.

Don't like strong drugs - but realise that sometimes they are necessary. I decided to have the sedative and in my particular circumstances, because I was so nervous, I think I made the right decision.

The department was running like clockwork and everyone was going in in turn for their particular procedure. You go into several different rooms during the course of the appointment, firstly to go through the procedure with the nurse/blood pressure taken, have a chat, etc, then another room to have the cannula fitted in readiness for the sedative going in. All steps were explained and any questions answered.

In the first interview with the nurse, I did find that some of the information was delivered, sort of parrot-fashion, and if the person involved was a fast talker, some of it was a little difficult to hear or understand on first explanation, but you can always ask questions, which I did!

The theatre itself was spotless and the staff very nice.

I walked in and said to the endoscopist and nurses that I'd changed my mind and was going home! Just joking but felt like a lamb to the slaughter at that stage.

They spray your throat with a strong-tasting stuff that really does numb your throat, so even without the sedative, I think I could have managed, and am sure the tube is lubricated so it's easier to swallow.

Once the sedative went in, goodness I seemed to float off into a semi-sleep and was just aware of the tube going down my throat, but absolutely no pain.

I don't know just how long the procedure took and can't recall the tube being taken from my throat, or even whether I walked to the recovery room or was pushed along on the bed. Had read in the info that the drug has an amnesic effect and it certainly did as all I remember is just snatches of the procedure.

I felt them snip the biopsy samples, but again, no pain, just the sensation inside.

Had a rest in the recovery room for half an hour, a welcome cuppa and some biscuits.

Endoscopist came in to bring me a printed report and explain any findings. I did find this a bit difficult to take in at the time as I was still under the influence of the sedative, so maybe something the department could bear in mind with the after-procedure chat. Sort of went in one ear and out the other! Am now waiting for the biopsy results, but the printed report they give you is very helpful.

Wasn't so bad all in all and the staff in the theatre were very nice.

Was very grateful for the care that day - thank you.