| Stop and think! – that’s the message from A & E |
| Written by Communications Team |
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Do NOT come to A&E unless you really need to! That’s the message from St Peter’s Hospital accident and emergency department, who are expecting an increase in patients over the Jubilee bank holiday weekend. They ask people to think twice about whether a visit to A&E is really necessary. A&E should only be used when people have suffered trauma, had an accident or have developed a serious illness and are unable to get advice from their local pharmacist, GP or Walk-in Centre. Surrey community hospitals will be providing a normal service, including Walk-in Centres and Minor Injuries Unit, right through the holiday period. For details go to www.surreycommunityhealth.nhs.uk There are other services available over the bank holiday weekend and there is lots of information at www.nhs.uk, including a symptom checker. NHS Direct is also available to call on 0845 4647, and they can offer advice and point you in the direction of the most appropriate service. Make sure you have enough of your regular medications and a supply of simple cold and flu remedies at home. If you do need any other advice you can always ask your pharmacist or, if needed, contact your GP out-of-hours service. |
