"Sigmoidoscopy at LGI"

Anything else?

I had a Sigmoidoscopy today at the LGI. I arrived at 8am, the department was quiet, after a few minutes I saw a young female nurse who was really pleasant and kind. She filled out a form and showed me to the changing room. There are separate facilities for male and female patients. I underwent the procedure and watched the Doctor take 8 biopsies. I felt no pain (had no drugs) and was very surprised to hear my innards have no pain receptors. I could feel the scope moving about, but it was not at all painful. The whole procedure took less than 20 minutes. The Sister then sorted me out with tea and biscuits. LGI Endoscopy is in the Clarendon Wing, it's a quiet area off the main corridor. The department is spotlessly clean and very well kept.

The receptionist was friendly as were the two nurses and the sister that I met. The Doctor was also very reassuring and talked me through everything. There was no sense of rush, everything was perfectly structured. I thought I'd die of embarrassment, due to the nature of the procedure. However, as the staff were so polite and friendly I didn't have a moment to think about embarrassment. They explained everything and distracted me with chit chat to great effect.

Overall, the best experience I have had in the NHS. I have to say this is probably the best department I have ever visited. Over the last 6 months I have had a lot of appointments in the hospital. This department is a credit to Leeds General Infirmary.

If your attending this department, do not worry about your dignity, it will remain intact due to the staff. Utterly brilliant, all of them.