Emergency care patient information

Our emergency care services include accident and emergency departments, urgent treatment centres (UTC) and specialist emergency centres.

Before your appointment

One family member, one friend, one guardian or carer can attend your consultation with you. You are welcome to ask for a chaperone and we will endeavour to provide one for you.

It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing if possible.

Please note that we are a teaching hospital, so healthcare students may be involved in your care. If you do not wish to have them in the room please let the nurse or doctor know and the students will be asked to step outside.

If you are coming to the A&E, ambulatory emergency care unit or urgent treatment centre from home, it is a good idea for you or your relative to bring details of any medication you are taking (it is often easiest to bring the medicine packets themselves). Please also bring any details of previous or upcoming hospital appointments as this will help our staff to understand your medical history.

Please try to remember to bring details of your GP – if you keep these details on a small piece of paper in your wallet it is easier at the hospital to give the correct details. Liaison with your GP is crucial for ensuring you receive appropriate ongoing care.

During your visit

Upon arrival please visit the A&E reception. You will be seen by a healthcare professional and directed to the most appropriate area for your needs. This could be the majors or resuscitation areas in our A&Es, one of our ambulatory emergency care units, or an urgent treatment centre.

You should be seen by a doctor or other healthcare professional within one hour of your attendance. You should be treated and either admitted or discharged within four hours.

You will be assessed and all necessary tests will be carried out. Once confirmed you will be informed whether you require admission, a further appointment, or a review by your GP. You may have blood tests or imaging as required.

After your visit

After your appointment you will receive a copy of the letter which will be sent to your GP. You will be given instructions on whether you should see your GP, or be referred to a different specialty within the hospital. If you do not remember your GP’s details, the letter will not be sent.