"Great nursing care in a busy, over-worked ward."

What I liked

I'd heard mixed reviews about the maternity care in Dewsbury due to problems with staffing so had a few reservations but I have to say that all the staff that I saw in my 36 hours in the hospital were caring, proficient and treated me with consideration and dignity. From the consultant to the ward orderleys, everyone was really pleasant, kind and helpful and made my stay as comfortable as possible. There were obvious issues with under-staffing but I have to give credit that the staff all tried to give the best possible care. Extra help made all the difference, in particular, a kind orderly lady looked after my baby while I had a shower as I didn't want to leave her on her own. I want to particularly mention the midwife who looked after me during my C section, who was extremely kind and professional and put me at ease in a stressful situation.

I was booked in for a section and told to come in to the hospital for 11.30 and I was in the operating theatre by 12 so it was extremely quick and efficient.

What could be improved

Looking back, I have to say that my anethetist wasn't the best. The first attempt at the spinal failed completely and a more senior person was brought in to supervise. I was later told by my partner that the anethetist was shaking when doing the second attempt which made me a little anxious.

The only other complaint was that it took 12 hours before I was moved from the recovery room to the ward due to the lack of staff and it was 1am when porters were finally able to move me. I was pretty exhausted at this time and wished they'd just left me to try to sleep or moved me earlier.

The food was pretty awful too which I suppose is standard in hospitals. All I can say is that I'm glad I wasn't in for any length of time as I think I'd go hungry!

Anything else?

Overall, I'd like to thank all the nursing staff for the level of care received. They all seemed to be doing their very best considering they appeared to be under-staffed.