"Fantastic care at A&E"

I was recently admitted to hospital following what I thought was quite a bad tonsillitis, but ended up also being epiglottitis and triggering sepsis. 

I had felt extremely unwell for a few days, despite antibiotics, trips to the pharmacy, calls to 111 and visits to MIU bridgwater. 

I was very embarrassed to attend ED with what I thought was essentially a sore throat but MIU advised I attend based on my observations and physical symptoms. I was struggling to swallow, my voice had changed and I felt like I had a constant lump in my throat 

I was triaged very quickly by Stacey who was fantastic. Given strong analgesia, triaged, obs checked and nothing but kindness immediately on the desk. She tried to stream me to ENT but as it was out of hours contacted the surgeons. Bloods and cultures taken, and results of my gas given to me for reassurance. 

Whilst waiting for the surgeons I was given analgesia to keep me comfortable. nothing was too much trouble for the staff, especially Jude, Cerys, Annie, Sarah, Steff, Jenny, Shelly, and Leah on reception. 

After a wait for the doctors I was given IV steroids, antibiotics and fluids.  Mikka promptly prepared and administered these with kindness and reassurance. I was then offered a bed on SDU. I was concerned about taking up a bed but after a discussion with HCA Sarah I decided to stay, which was very fortunate as I ended up needing daily IV steroids, fluids and antibiotics. If Sarah hadn't convinced me to stay I definitely would have ended up back in. 

During this admission I felt so unwell but everyone was so kind, compassionate and reassuring. I could tell the department was busy but nothing was too much trouble for anyone. everyone worked very well as a team. I was offered food and water (which sadly I had to turn down as I couldn't swallow it!) I was kept informed about my care. Doctors were chased when the wait was getting a bit lengthy and the department was clean and tidy. Doctors were kind and compassionate, ensured I had a good understanding of what was going on and what my options were re: coming in or going home, and if I wanted to go home offered the safety net of returning to see ENT the next day so I could sort childcare.

I am incredibly grateful to have received such fantastic care, and very grateful to all the staff involved. Apologies if I have forgotten anyones name!