A&E departments assess and treat patients with serious injuries or illnesses. Generally, you should visit A&E or call 999 for emergencies, such as:
- loss of consciousness,
- pain that is not relieved by simple analgesia,
- acute confused state,
- persistent, severe chest pain, or
- breathing difficulties.
If an ambulance is needed call 999, the emergency phone number in England. You can also dial 112, which is the equivalent for the European Union.
Major A&E departments offer access 365 days a year and usually 24 hours a day. Not all hospitals have an A&E department.
At A&E a doctor or nurse will assess your condition and decide on further action. You usually have to wait before you are seen particularly on Friday or Saturday nights. The rule is that 98% of people attending A&E should be seen, diagnosed and treated within four hours of arrival..
In addition to major A&E departments other services such as walk-in centres and minor injury units are available. They can treat patients without an appointment. They deal with minor injuries and illnesses.
- Minor injury units (MIU) offer assessment and treatment for minor injuries such as sprains and strains.
- At NHS walk-in centres, you can see an experienced nurse or doctor (although not all centres have a doctor) for advice, assessment and treatment for minor ailments and injuries such as cuts, bruises, minor infections, strains and skin complaints.
First aid for babies
See what you can do if your baby has a health emergency
Last reviewed: 24/03/2009
Next review due: 23/03/2011
