"NHS in crisis- nursing staff going above and beyond"

I was one of the very unfortunate people who became unwell between Christmas and New Year, being referred by my GP to the Medical Assessment Unit at the RAH.

After almost a 10 hour wait I was guided through to a makeshift assessment area and seen by a Dr. I was told I needed to stay in but there was nowhere for me to go and that I would be staying in this area for the night. I was in a recliner at least, however how can some patients be left in these areas and nurses having to work in conditions that I believe aren't safe or fit for purpose? This to me clearly indicates the crisis in the NHS being ignored by management and above.

However there was a beacon of light at the end of a dark tunnel. The 2 nurses - Debbie and Nicky - who were working in the area I was in were nothing short of amazing. They were clearly organised and their care was second to none. You could hear them advocating for patients who couldn't advocate for themselves. There was no blankets and you could hear their attempt to hunt high and low for basic necessities like blankets. Always checking in with the patients in their care and making sure we were comfortable.

Nothing was too much for them, at a time where they were under pressure working in such an environment. I honestly can't thank them enough and the Dr, who kept me informed with what was going on. Please pass on my gratitude and thanks to them. 

And please get better conditions for patients and staff! That waiting room was horrific, no access to water unless having to interrupt staff.