observations on hospital life

My bed was at the kitchen end of the ward, and from there I had a wonderful experience of life I had not previously known.
Some things I learnt.........

Tea cups and saucers rattle on their way into the dishwasher, and out, and on to the tea trolley- this happens at least 8 times a day.
The ice cube machine rattles all day long, especially first thing in the morning and about 4 pm when endless jugs are filled.
The kitchen is a great place for nurses to congregate at 4 am for a chat.
When a nurse says ' I will do your drugs at 6 am' it is code word for 4.45am- every time!
Sometimes empty beds need changing at 1 am, and this will involve lights and chatting.
Stainless steel may be hygeinic in a kitchen, but quiet it is not.
Some patients have unbelievable belching habits- louder than a bear!- and can continue throughout the night without stopping.
If 6 am is a reasonable time to wake everyone up with a drink, then 5 am is a reasonable time to load the tea trolley.
Hospital may sound a good place to lie in bed and sleep all day, but in reality very little sleep can be had, and you will return home exhausted!


However, there were many things I was grateful for.....

At least 8 cups of tea a day! Very British- 'how about a nice cuppa?'
A jug of fresh iced water changed twice daily.
Scrupulously clean sheets changed daily.
Room mates to share the boredom and share a laugh.
Nurses who worked day and night to look after me.

All in all, I was grateful to be cared for so well, but will be packing earplugs for my next trip!