"I actually look forward to seeing some of the same staff tomorrow."

After feeling unwell at the close of a Plasma Exchange session with the Apheresis Unit of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, my Neurological Consultant, Dr Ingrid, booked me an appointment with the Surgical Observation Unit of the same hospital.

I came to the Unit quite stressed, and accompanied by my wife. I was quickly triaged to a top-level position. The nurses ensured my safety, and helped me calm down somewhat. I soon saw the Consultant Doctor, who noted my entire story dating back to May 2024. His diagnosis (inflamed gallbladder) spurred the team into action. A scan was booked for the next day, and I was given medications to see me through the next five days. Despite it being a very busy Unit, I was given first-class treatment in a limited time period. Being immunocompromised, I was given the security of a decent space within the confines of the busy ward. The entire staff was welcoming, supportive, helpful, and answered with clarity any questions I or my wife put to them. When my wife was away for any reason, a member of the staff would ask if I needed any help, or had any concerns. I found this most comforting.

I left five hours after entering the Unit, complete with new meds, and supporting information on how and when to use them, and advice about my scan booked for the next day. Overall I was most impressed with the team effort to deal with my situation collectively, which gave me confidence in the entire unit. I was offered sandwiches and drinks, and shown access to a toilet where everything seemed very clean.They gave me a card with the phone number of the Unit, and encouraged to get in touch if the nighttime stay at home proved difficult. I was assured they were ready and willing to help me as soon as I arrived. Staff attitude and skills seemed first class. I actually look forward to seeing some of the same staff tomorrow.