"All staff were a credit to the NHS"

Was sent by GP to the medical assessment unit in Glasgow Royal Infirmary  for blood tests to rule out temporal arteritis.

On arriving at the department after waiting for short time in waiting area  I was triaged by nurse, obs taken and general history taken. Provided with name tag and given information of next steps.

After further short wait another nurse took bloods explaining what would happen next and directed to wait in waiting area. The unit was extremely busy with acutely ill patients at this time but I was treated with professionalism and courtesy. After another wait in the waiting area I was taken to ambulatory care area of the department and provided with refreshments while awaiting lab results. The staff here were very friendly, caring and approachable as well as remaining professional and competent at all times.

When the lab results results became available I had a very thorough  examination by a nurse under the supervision of an advanced nurse practitioner and advised that bloods samples did not correspond with temporal arteritis and the pain I was experiencing was likely due to exacerbation of longstanding condition.

Together we came up with a plan to try to resolve pain. I felt that this was very respectful as I have insight into my condition as I have had this problem for many years. However due to protocols this had to be discussed with medical personnel on duty. They agreed with our plan but due to level of pain I had, felt it would be better to admit me. The care I received while waiting on admission was exemplary, all staff were caring and compassionate.

I was then transferred to Ward 46 when a bed became available. I was transferred at approx midnight. The ward was extremely busy and the staff were all working very hard to get everyone settled for sleep.

However I was warmly greeted on admission and welcomed into the ward. I was quickly shown to a bed that had already been allocated for my use and shown where the toilet and shower facilities were and given a buzzer to call for the staff if req. This made me feel safe and comfortable.

Once I was settled into bed I was offered refreshments and  admission paperwork quickly completed. This was very refreshing considering how busy the staff were. While I was in the ward for 3 nights the staff were always professional pleasant and caring. Nothing was too much trouble for them and they were always there when needed for whatever reason.

They were a credit to the NHS and I was very proud of them. All the shifts were diligent and caring. Always willing to help no matter the problem and worked extremely hard.

You hear many horror stories about the NHS but I had to write this as my treatment could not be faulted in any way. So thank you all for your wonderful care.