Recent Hospital appointment for PFT

[johnderby]

I have seen quite a few people posting recently about being worried when having to go to the hospital for appointments. I have recently been for an Echo Cardiogram and also a PFT.

On both occasions, the hospital was a lot quieter than usual. Everyone was observing social distancing and wearing masks. I had to use a hospital wheelchair as the departments were a long way from the entrance. All wheelchairs were being wiped down after each use and there was plenty of hand sanitizer all over the place, The two members of staff for each test were wearing masks and gloves. Once in the waiting area, I was advised to use the hand sanitizer before going in for the tests. The equipment was all cleaned down and a sticker advised the last time it was used and who had cleaned it afterward. Once the tests were completed the equipment was cleaned again.

I felt totally safe all the time I was at the hospital and all the staff were all observing the right Covid19 protocols.

After my experience, I can happily tell anyone having to go to the hospital for an appointment, not to worry about it.

I hope this helps some of you.😊

[sassy59]

That’s good to hear Johnderby. Great that you felt safe. Xxxx

[madonbrew]

Thank you Johnderby 😊

It is good to hear positive stories of how hospitals are managing at this time! I also felt safe at my outpatient appointment. Glad you had a positive experience!

[Snackjack]

Yes I had occasion recently to have to attend at a hospital and like you I found it all as you did, I had been worried before I went but there was no need to have been as it was all very Covid Secure and I was there about 3 hours and like you I felt very safe. Lot less people than when I have been before, patients and staff all observing the protocols. Patients couldn't take anyone with them and had to produce the appointment letter to get in which I think was one reason there were a lot less people in the waiting area which seats were all very spaced out. Sanitiser everywhere you looked, everyone wearing masks.

I am waiting for an appointment for an Endoscopy (they are on catch up) but I won't be worried like I was last time (except about the procedure itself).

Hope, like johnderby's experience will help any concerns people may have about attending Hospital appointments.😊

[Becky130777]

I recently went in hospital for a scan and felt the same. My appointment was 7pm in the evening so very quiet and everyone wearing masks and wiping down equipment

[Suzie42]

Sorry but I think all through the summer when infection was low it was very safe to go to hospital, but now I dont think it's the same. I've heard now a few people catching covid from being in hospital. It's been on the news that nhs staff arent being tested now. I would just like to say if you need to go to hospital you must go, but be very very careful. Wear a proper 3 layer mask at all times and carry hand gel. I had to go to hospital 3 times in the summer for tests etc and was very safe.

[Croydonia]

I went yesterday for two scans and an ultrasound, and I was impressed how Covid safe the hospital was. Very clean, everybody masked, lots of hand sanitizer being used. Luckily we didn’t have to use public transport, and found a parking spot. Another visit in two weeks for lung function test, then a video appointment. The hospitals seem to be trying to get back to normal service.

[watergazer]

I'm sure people have been reassured by your post johnderby- thanks. My friend; who hasn't been outside her house since March; needed reassurance this week as she was going for tests and I was able to tell her about my positive visit to the same hospital. Some people are really terrified and it's good to see positive appraisals. xx

[MoyB]

My husband and I have had several appointments at both our local hospitals and our GP practice in recent weeks and have been impressed each time by the COVID precautions being taken. The first time we went I was anxious, but now I'm taking it in my stride! It's good to hear that others are also having positive experiences. xx Moy

[Carnival567]

It was just like that when I had an appointment for an echocardiogram at the hospital I go to. No qualms at all.

[katieoxo60]

hello johnderby, can I second you on this topic. I was an in patient in October and have since been visiting rehab for Physio with an Ambulance assistance, wheelchair ect . Depts. are very quite but very careful.

[Jaybird19]

Thanks for the info . It's not the hospital itself . It is getting there, Usually drive myself but car is out of action like me at present with knee and back problems. I I am not allowed to use taxis or public transport. No one i can ask to take me. I will have to be content with telephone appointment and flow meter results. As ma y others have.

[Mavary]

I had to go last week for a Dexa scan for my bones. I saw about four people on the way in. They all socially distanced. I went into the X Ray department and there was three or four people waiting but as soon as I sat down I was called in. The nurse I saw was really nice. I had the scan done and was out within about fifteen minutes from first leaving the car. None of the people waiting were any more than a couple of minutes. It felt really safe.