"Great, considerate care, even in busy times"

Anything else?

I had an admission for asthma (via A&E) before Christmas, on one of the busiest days of the year for the hospital, due to early closing of businesses and people going out to celebrate (and drinking too much!)

The norovirus was in full swing and a number of wards were having to be closed and deep cleaned, and staffing levels were seriously affected by last-minute absences of nurses who had fallen ill. The beds manager came and explained this to us promptly - it's amazing how much difference simply knowing what's going on can make when you're in a stressful situation.

Despite this pressure on beds and staffing levels, every aspect of the care I received was excellent - from HCAs and the tea lady to the nurses and the consultant who admitted me.

A small (but important) mix-up happened with my discharge medication, but because the staff had treated me with respect I felt able to query what I'd been given and it was quickly rectified. I expect my GP would have picked it up the following day anyway, but by creating an atmosphere of cooperation rather than conflict with patients I was able to work with my carers to help them to help me.

The food was also surprisingly good, with plenty of healthy options for various dietary requirements. In A&E itself, while waiting to be admitted, the HCA brought myself and my partner several cups of tea - a small thing that made a huge difference to us, as we'd come in via the GP.

It was also clear that the hospital staff were mindful of the various needs of a very diverse community. They explained that our remote, rural location at home was a factor in risk management and varied the plan accordingly.

On the ward I was situated next to a vulnerable elderly patient. The patience and care that the consultant showed towards her was marvelous.

Follow up to my GP by the hospital happened promptly and she was able to check test results via the computer system. All in all I felt safe, taken seriously, treated as a whole person and have no concerns about having to go again in future.