"Bowel Cancer Screening Service"

I was really not looking forward to my test, a bowel scope, even though I knew it was a sensible thing to have.

I was worried about it hurting and being embarrassing; and even doing the preparation at home (an enema) sounded intimidating.

However all of my worries and concerns were unfounded.

The information posted to me at the start of the process was helpful and straight forward.

The prep was surprisingly manageable.

Malvern Hospital was welcoming with plenty of parking, friendly reception staff and a pleasant waiting area.

As for the scope itself...… the team were brilliant.

The nurse who went through the inevitable paperwork explained everything clearly, acknowledged my worries about the process, and was extremely supportive.

She explained that I could have gas and air if I needed to, to help with any pain, though she said most people didn't need it (she was quite right - I didn't!)

She told me that I could ask the endoscopist to stop the procedure if I wasn't coping, and that alone gave me a sense of control, which helped lower my anxiety.

When I went into the room for the test, I was introduced to all the nurses in the room (it is a nurse led procedure). The nurse doing the test was reassuringly professional throughout which made it an embarrassment free experience.

She told me what was happening and what to expect as the test progressed.

Another nurse, sat at the head of the bed, kept me chatting (in between the endoscopists updates) ensuring I was OK.

And to my surprise, I was OK.

The test was over very quickly.

Most of the test was pain free.

There was very little discomfort at one point, but the lead nurse warned me before hand, so I was expecting it.

I was given my results there and then and was provided with easy to follow after care instructions.

As a fellow nurse, I know what good care should look like, and it should look like this. You were absolutely great.

Thank you for making this a very positive experience.