"Emergency Gall Bladder Removal"

I was admitted on the 30th March with my 2nd episode of acute pancreatitis. I spoke to the consultant on the SAU and they said that they wanted to keep me in overnight and if a slot opened up for surgery I could have my Gall Bladder removed. As I was already on the waiting list this was almost ideal to have it removed sooner rather than later - especially when the acute episodes could still happen in the meantime.The following morning I was told a slot had opened up so I was on the list for surgery. The consultant was reassuring but matter of fact (a trait I like in healthcare professionals). The anaesthesiologist was extremely likeable, friendly and reassuring. The theatre staff were excellent and made the general anaesthesia process seem like I was just falling to sleep in my own bed. As it was a late night surgery I was required to stay over night for observation. The night wasn't the best due to another patient's drip monitors constantly beeping (this is no exaggeration either). This wasn't the patient or hospital staff's fault by any means but after coming out of surgery the last thing you want is constant disruption preventing you from sleeping.I was monitored closely by a Ward Assistant throughout the night and they were my advocate when I was getting frustrated with the constant disruption, fatigue and post-op discomfort. The Staff Nurses were very caring and helpful during my stay. The ward assistants were absolutely fantastic. They were all friendly, reassuring and took the time to talk to you and were always popping their heads in to check up on you.Thank you to all of the staff on Ward 21 who took care of me during my hospital stay; the professionalism and level of care you provided just shows how brilliant an institution the NHS is.