Patients using Devon's biggest hospital claim it is understaffed and waiting times to be admitted are too long, an NHS survey has revealed.

More than 800 patients answered questions on Derriford Hospital in Plymouth.

There were concerns about noise at night, poor food, and 28% of respondents said they were not treated with dignity and respect.

However, the survey showed that 85% of patients were satisfied with the level of care they received.

It allows us to look at the areas that we can improve on and develop action plans to improve the quality of care

Paula Greenidge

The survey was carried out in Spring 2002 after patients had left hospital. They had been admitted up to the end of November 2001.

Concerns included ward cleanliness, a reliance on agency nurses and a claim that it was rare to see the same consultant twice.

Paula Greenidge, the director of nursing quality and customer care, said: "Generally, we're really pleased with the results.

"It tells us 85% of patients were pleased with their care and rated us as good, very good or excellent.

"Also, it allows us to look at the areas that we can improve on and develop action plans to improve the quality of care we deliver to patients."