Emergency Care
Emergency Care
Choose Well
To help you decide which service to use, if you are in any doubt contact NHS Wales
Please think carefully before going straight to the emergency department (A&E).
Choose well so that:
- You get the right treatment at the right place
- Busy emergency services can help those that need it most
- Essential treatment is given in the shortest time
Be prepared by having essential medicines at home in a child safe cupboard
Who to contact:
EMERGENCIES e.g loss of consciousness, severe chest pain, serious bleeding, severe pain, cannot talk in sentences….. |
Dial 999 and ask for the ambulance service for serious emergencies. If you are injured or seriously ill you should go or be taken to the Emergency Department (A&E). |
When and why? Emergency services are very busy. They should only be used in very serious or life threatening situations. Choosing well means that essential treatment is given as quickly as possible. Dialling 999 or using A&E when you don’t need to could delay treatment for someone else. |
URGENT CARE e.g. shortness of breath, persistently raised temperature, abdominal pain, minor injuries….. |
If you need urgent health care for your physical and mental health, phone your GP Surgery or the GP out of hours service. If you need treatment that cannot wait contact NHS Wales For urgent social care phone Social Services who do have an out of hours number 08708 509508. |
When and why? You should avoid going to the Emergency Department unless it is a serious emergency. If you do, you may have to wait a long time as priority is always given to emergencies. Choosing well means that you and your family will receive the best possible treatment when you need it. |
ROUTINE CARE e.g. repeat prescriptions, blood test, illness, contraception….. |
Your local GP surgery is the first place you should go for all health care. You can book an appointment to be seen within 2 days, further in advance or possibly the same day. Your GP will refer you to a hospital or other services if you need further care. |
When and why? Make an appointment with your local GP when you have an illness or injury that isn’t an emergency. Choosing well means that you get the treatment you need at a convenient time and reduces the demand on emergency services. |
COMMUNITY SUPPORT e.g. coughs, colds, stopping smoking, support group….. |
Your local Pharmacist can give you expert advice and support on common illnesses and any medicine you may need without booking an appointment. A local voluntary organisation may be able to provide the help that you need such as a support group or extra care. |
When and why? Visit your local pharmacy for advice and treatment. You could contact a local voluntary organisation in your area. Choosing well means that you get the treatment or help you need as quickly as possible |
ADVICE e.g. what should I do? Where shall I go to get the right help for my problem?..... |
NHS Wales offers confidential health advice and information about services that are available 24 hours a day. |
When and why? |
SELF CARE e.g. sore throat, cough, sprains, hangover... |
Keep a first aid kit and simple medicines at home in case you or your family needs them. You can ask for further advice from NHS Wales
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When and Why? |
In emergencies always dial 999
Useful links:
Dewis Cymru is the place to go if you want information or advice about your well-being – or want to know how you can help somebody else.