"I was met with understanding and compassion"

The receptionist who booked me in to the department was vey friendly and clear about what I could expect, she looked at me and gave me the impression that she was interested in my welfare and how I was going to be looked after. This was an important first impression.

I was very anxious, having had the procedure before. I explained this and was met with understanding and compassion. I was given a thoughtful explanation about the option of throat spray (as I had experienced before) and sedation and the option to start with the spray and if I couldn't tolerate the procedure to have sedation during it.

This was explained to me first by the very helpful nurse (Kring) and then by the extremely kind and gentle consultant, Dr Jones. Dr Jones made every effort to help me through my anxiety and gain my confidence, without being patronising or over-confident.

Dr Jones was patient and gave me explanations which resulted in my feeling confident in her management of my care. She fulfilled her promise to me, to start with throat spray and then, when I was finding it very difficult, she gave me some sedation which eased everything for me. The team of nurses who looked after me were all very kind and considerate.