"Fantastic Staff, Fast Examination, Brilliant..."

What I liked

The marternity department staff and the midwives and midwifery managers.

After going in to hospital with labour like pains on the sunday morning/afternoon i was examined swiftly by a midwife who assured me the baby was on her way and although i was not in established labour (3cm dilated) she estimated i would be back tonight and deliver monday morning her examination was quick and she showed concern that i was in pain but sent me home to wait for labour to start properly.

I stayed at home and when i was sure it was time i came to hospital again at 8pm (shift change over time) and was happily surprised to find that the communication between the midwifes and reading of my notes was fantastic - i didnt need to tell my new midwife what was going on.

After an examination she confirmed i was in established labour and offered me pain relief options carefully explaining each one and the risks involved and what might happen during the course fo my labour should something go wrong ect.

After a 4 1/2 hour labour and a few complications at the end due to my baby passing miconium i delivered a healthy girl all the time i was there my midwife was fantastic and supportive and she made the experience very happy for me as a first time mum when it could have otherwise been very stressful and overwhelming especially when she had to call in a SCBU nurse but she explained everything that was going on to me and my husband.

I really feel your midwifes give exemplary care and really exceeded the call of duty.

What could be improved

The amount of staff you have in the maternity ward and labour ward meant that the midwives there seemed stretched but it didnt seem to affect the level of care recieved by me or any of the ladies in my ward.

The only thing i was slightly concerned about was the attitude of one of the "bank" midwives whos badge said she was from north tyneside, she was slightly dissmissive and uncaring but she was literally the only one and it didnt put a dampner on my visit as i understand when you are short staffed you have to get what you are given!

Anything else?

My baby was born in Nov 2009 but didnt know i could leave a comment so only getting round to it now.

As a result of my wonderful experience i have recommended this hospital and hold it in high regard and it was all down to the level of care i recieved from the staff of a clearly understaffed hospital who didnt let it bother them that they were working long hours with alot of patients.

I am due my son in feb/march and i cant wait to be there again for the same (hopefully) experience.

Thank you to all the staff involved in my delivery you truly made it the best day of my life :)