"Thank you for the care and attention."

What I liked

I was admitted to Ward 15 after elective plastic surgery and was in the care of the ward for 10 days. After that I was cared for by the plastic surgery dressing clinic.

The ward environment was cleaned effectively, but I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail and hygiene paid by all the ward staff, day and night. Wound care practices appear to be of a very high standard and I have been very impressed by the knowledge, skill and expertise of the nursing staff, which gave me and my family a high degree of confidence in the care being provided.

I was involved in all decisions made about my care and was kept informed at all times. Despite the frenetic pace of the ward and their heavy workload, I always felt that the staff had time for me and everyone was friendly and very approachable.

The medical staff attended the ward regularly and discussed my needs and treatment with me in a clear and informative way.

As my recovery has progressed, I was given open access to the dressing clinic, where I have received excellent treatment. The nursing and medical staff have been happy to answer my questions by phone and facilitated my being seen the same day when I felt I had a problem.

I must also say that I always saw the same degree of care and courtesy being afforded to other patients who were admitted and discharged during my stay.

What could be improved

As always seems to be the case these days, the nursing and housekeeping staff did seem to be under a great deal of pressure caused by their workloads.