"Highly satisfied with the service provided."

What I liked

I had bowel surgery and my recovery was on Ward 32, then following discharge I was re-admitted onto Ward 31 because of an infection. I found my experiences on both wards to be as positive as they could be under the circumstances. It was obvious that the nursing staff have many responsibilities and that they are under tremendous pressure to ensure that all of their duties are performed to the best of their abilities. However I do believe that they all performed exceptionally well and I was treated by all members of staff - doctors, nurses, Physiotherapists and the various ward helpers and assitants with dignity and respect. I was pleased that the consultants and doctors who were overseeing my care, took the time to discuss my condition with me and did not display the arrogance that I have experienced with some of their profession in the past. I believe that the nursing I received was so effective because they were were concerned with patients' emotional well-being, not only their physical recovery, and there is no doubt that their friendliness and happy dispositions helped patients to feel at ease. I would like to thank a Staff Nurse on Ward 31 who gave so much of herself to the patients whilst maintaining her professionalism. I had to visit ward 31 twice after my discharge and both sisters who saw me on these occasions were brilliant in listening to me and helping me. I would also like to commend the cleaning staff on Ward 31. I have had lots of experience in observing such staff, not only through my own stays, but my daugher has been hospitalised numerous times, Without doubt one of the cleaners on this ward was the most thorough I have ever seen and she deserves recognition. Sorry I don't know her name. I have had experience with Darlington Memorial for nearly thirty years - you are definately a better hospital now and I hope your achievements are recognised.

What could be improved

Staffing levels

Patients have to give personal details for your admin (name, dr, medication, allergies etc) more than once, sometimes more than twice. This is a waste of professionals' time and for a really sick patient I think this is unacceptable. In this technological age there should be some system to make this important administrative task much easier.

Anything else?

My care at Darlington Memorial is not complete and I am hoping that I can continue to have such positive experiences in what is personally a very difficult time.