East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust is urging local people to keep safe and ensure our Emergency Departments (A&E) are kept free for only those people who really need it. It is vital that people remember A&E is for serious or life-threatening situations, including:
- Severe chest pain
- Suspected heart attack or stroke
- Suspected meningitis
- Injuries such as fractures or major burns
- Breathing difficulties
- Unconsciousness
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- Suspected drug overdose
- Sudden and severe headaches
- Severe head injuries
People who do not need to come into A&E with minor illnesses could be better treated by alternative health services e.g. NHS Choices, GP/out of hours GP, pharmacist, dentist, walk in centres, minor injury units or NHS 111.
It is estimated that around 2,000 patients a month come to A&E with complaints that should be treated by another part of the health service. The most common reasons in addition to minor illness, are bites and stings, dental problems and back pain which can all be treated by alternative services.
Amy Collis, Head of Nursing for Urgent Care at ESHT said: “It’s really important, especially over the festive period, that local people help us to keep A&E free for those people who require emergency treatment. A&E doctors and nurses will continue to prioritise those patients who urgently require our help and work with those people who come to the department with minor illnesses finding them find the most appropriate service.”
For more information visit: www.sussexhelpmy.nhs.uk #HelpMyNHS #HelpMyAandE